Chelsea Unveils Jorrel Hato: 19-Year-Old Ajax Defender Signs for €44.18 Million

Chelsea completes signing of Ajax defender Jorrel Hato in a €44.18 million deal. The 19-year-old Netherlands international has signed a 7-year contract with the Blues.

Key Points to Include:

• Player Name: Jorrel Hato
• Age: 19
• Previous Club: Ajax
• Transfer Fee: €44.18 million or £37 million
• Contract Duration: 7 years
• Position: Defender (left-back and centre-back)
• International Experience: 6 caps for the Netherlands national team

Chelsea has officially signed 19-year-old Ajax wonderkid Jorrel Hato on a seven-year deal. The Blues paid approximately €43 million for the talented Dutch defender, not €44.18 million as stated. Hato joins Chelsea with 111 appearances, four goals, and 10 assists under his belt from his time in Amsterdam.

Transfer Details:

Transfer Fee: €43 million, making Hato the fifth most expensive player in Ajax history

Contract Duration: Seven years, until June 2032

Player Profile: 19-year-old Dutch defender, versatile in playing as a central defender and left-back

Hato's signing is expected to bolster Chelsea's defense, with the team set to feature in the UEFA Champions League. The young defender's ability to play in multiple positions makes him an attractive addition to Enzo Maresca's side.

Jorrel Hato is officially a Blue. 🔵✍️ pic.twitter.com/j1d1o88yWu

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 3, 2025

Jorrel Hato made his Ajax debut on January 11, 2023, in the KNVB Cup against Den Bosch, not in February, becoming one of the youngest players to appear for Ajax. He was 16 years old at the time. Hato went on to achieve remarkable milestones, including becoming the youngest captain in Ajax history, leading the team in a Europa League match against AEK Athens at just 17 years and 282 days old. Additionally, he became the youngest player to reach 100 appearances for the club.

Jorrel Hato, the talented left-footed defender, wrapped up his time in Amsterdam with an impressive 111 appearances for Ajax. During his tenure, he scored four goals and notched 10 assists, showcasing his skills as a versatile defender. The 19-year-old's transfer to Chelsea came with a price tag of approximately €43 million, making him the fifth most expensive player in Ajax history. Interestingly, his transfer fee matches that of Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian star who made the move to West Ham. Hato joins Chelsea on a seven-year contract, promising an exciting future for the young defender.

Chelsea is delighted to announce the signing of Netherlands international Jorrel Hato from Ajax. ✍️🇳🇱

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 3, 2025

Jorrel Hato, the talented left-footed defender, wrapped up his time in Amsterdam with an impressive 111 appearances for Ajax. During his tenure, he scored four goals and notched 10 assists, showcasing his skills as a versatile defender. The 19-year-old's transfer to Chelsea came with a price tag of approximately €43 million, making him the fifth most expensive player in Ajax history. Interestingly, his transfer fee matches that of Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian star who made the move to West Ham. Hato joins Chelsea on a seven-year contract, promising an exciting future for the young defender.

Competition for Starting Spot

Jorrel Hato joins Chelsea and will likely compete with Marc Cucurella for the left-back position. However, his versatility allows him to play in central defense, where he'll face stiff competition from Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Mamadou Sarr. Tosin Adarabioyo could also be a contender for a starting spot. Hato's adaptability and skills make him a valuable addition to Enzo Maresca's squad.

Upcoming Matches

Hato's first opportunity to showcase his skills for Chelsea will be in a friendly match against Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge on August 8th. The Blues then kick off their Premier League season on Sunday, August 17th, hosting Crystal Palace at home. This will be a crucial match for Hato to make a strong impression and secure his place in the team.