Chelsea have completed the signing of highly-rated Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax, with the teenager penning a seven-year contract that runs until 2032.
The 19-year-old Netherlands international joins the Blues as part of the club’s long-term strategy to invest in young, versatile talents. Hato will begin training with his new Chelsea teammates this week as pre-season preparations ramp up ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
“I’m very excited and happy to be here,” Hato told Chelsea’s official website. “I thought a lot about my future and felt this was the right step. Chelsea is the perfect club to continue my development.”
Hato added that the club’s style of play suits him, and the Premier League move was the next natural step in his career.
Born in Rotterdam, Hato began his football journey with Sparta before moving to Ajax’s youth academy in 2018. He signed his first professional deal at 16 and quickly made a name for himself in the UEFA Youth League and Jong Ajax.
In February 2023, he became the third-youngest player to debut for Ajax in the Eredivisie, making his first senior appearance in a match against Cambuur. By the end of that season, he was starting in the Dutch Cup final, signaling his rapid ascent.
Since the 2023/24 season, Hato has been a regular starter for Ajax, playing both as a central defender and a left-back. Despite his youth, he captained the first team as a 17-year-old, showcasing leadership beyond his years.
Known for his tackling, ball progression, and composure under pressure, Hato’s arrival adds defensive depth and future promise to Chelsea’s backline.
Chelsea fans will be eager to see how quickly Hato adapts to the demands of Premier League football, but all signs point to a bright future for one of Europe’s top defensive prospects.
