Ajax Reject Chelsea’s First Bid for Young Defender Jorrel Hato

According to ESPN, Chelsea have faced rejection from Ajax for their first bid for young defender Jorrel Hato.

The Dutch club — aware of Hato’s desire to depart — has sent a counter-offer to The Blues for the 19-year-old player.

Ajax manager John Heitinga refused to confirm Hato’s availability for the Como Cup final. “He’s still an Ajax player. I can’t promise [he’ll play on Sunday]. We still have to train, and it’s still a few days away,” he stated.

Hato — who can operate as both center-back and left-back — has been a regular choice for Ajax over the past two seasons. Arsenal previously showed interest in his services but opted to sign Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia instead.

Chelsea are drawn to Hato’s versatility which aligns with Enzo Maresca’s playing style — who seeks a defender capable of contributing in midfield. Besides Hato, The Blues are also monitoring Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig and Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United.