'I thought a lot about my future and...': Jorrel Hato opens up on sensational move to Premier League club Chelsea

Club World Cup champions Chelsea have completed yet another signing ahead of the start of the 2025/26 season. After solidifying the offence by adding Liam Delap and Joao Pedro to the squad, Enzo Meresca and Co. have shifted their attention to defense and roped in Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax.

Chelsea spent a reported sum of 37 million pounds ($49 million) to bring Hato on board. The 19-year-old has signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge. He becomes the club’s eighth signing of the summer transfer window. Earlier, Chelsea signed- Joao Pedro (£60m), Jamie Gittens (£51.1m), Liam Delap (£30m), Estevao Willian (£29.1m), Dario Essugo (£18.5m), Mamadou Sarr (£12m) and Kendry Paez (£17.3m).

Jorrel Hato on transfer move to Chelsea

“I´m very excited,” Hato, who can operate in central defence or at left back, told the Premier League club´s website.

“I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that, so I´m very happy.”

More from Football

Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson picks his next club even as five teams express interest in signing Senegalese striker Premier League transfers: Chelsea edge out Liverpool to sign 19-year-old prodigy

Jorrel Hato joined Ajax’s academy at 12 (from Sparta Rotterdam) and turned pro at 16. He made 111 appearances for Ajax, scoring 4 goals, before earning his international debut as a substitute in a 6-0 win over Gibraltar in November 2023.

Chelsea starts its Premier League season on Aug. 17 at home to Crystal Palace.

What will Jorrel Hato bring to the table?

Jorrel Hato will bring a bag of skills to the table. His versatility, ball control, and distribution skills will make him a bankable left-back or centre-back at Chelsea. His leadership qualities, speed, and agility are notable assets. With growth potential, Hato is expected to provide competition for Marc Cucurella and bolster Chelsea’s defensive options.

While Chelsea have been busy in the transfer market, making modifications to the squad ahead of the new season, the team seemingly still has room for improvement. Moreover, with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal making notable signings, it will be interesting to see whether the club can challenge its rivals and contend for the top prize in English football.