Chelsea Sign Jorrel Hato from Ajax in €43 Million Long-Term Deal

Chelsea Football Club has officially announced the acquisition of emerging Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax for a reported fee of approximately €43–44 million (£37–38 million). The 19-year-old has committed to a seven-year contract, running until the summer of 2032, marking a significant investment in one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.

Hato, who can operate both as a left-back and centre-back, emerged through the Ajax academy after joining in 2018 and made his senior debut in January 2023. Over 111 appearances for the first team, he has also earned six caps for the Netherlands national side. Last season, he received the Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year award and the Abdelhak Nouri Trophy at Ajax.

The deal makes Hato one of Chelsea’s most expensive defensive signings this summer, joining a crop of high-profile acquisitions designed to fortify the club’s backline. The agreement includes a sell-on clause favoring Ajax in future transfers. For Chelsea, Hato represents not only immediate depth behind Marc Cucurella but also long-term potential. The club sees him as a versatile asset who can mature into a fixture within Enzo Maresca’s evolving defensive setup.

Expressing his excitement, Hato stated: “I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here. 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.”

The move comes amid a busy summer at Chelsea, with the club recently completing several other transfers and reportedly exceeding £250 million in spending. Hato joins teammates such as Liam Delap, João Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Dário Essugo, and Estêvão as the latest in what has been a major recruitment drive.

Hato is expected to travel to London shortly and is likely to be integrated into the squad during pre-season fixtures. Chelsea’s opening Premier League match of the 2025–26 season is scheduled for August 17 against Crystal Palace, a perfect opportunity for this exciting new recruit to make an early impression.

Chelsea has secured Jorrel Hato’s signature from Ajax in a deal worth around €43–44 million, with the 19‑year‑old defender signing a long-term contract until 2032. Hato’s versatility, youth international pedigree, and experience at Ajax make him a strategic addition as Chelsea continues to build for the future.