Why Chelsea are approaching potential Jorrel Hato transfer with caution as highly-rated Ajax defender emerges as target

However, the centre-back is a secondary option with the Blues eager to land Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, though they face competition from Real Madrid, Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

There are concerns around their pursuit of Hato, however, asthe Daily Mail reports that Chelsea have taken note of his costly errors in Ajax's recent 4-0 defeat against Utrecht. There is still belief that the 19-year-old will continue to develop, though.

Arsenal and Liverpool have also been credited with interest in Hato, who came through the Ajax youth system before making his debut in 2023. He has made over 100 appearances for the Dutch side and is on track to win his first Eredivisie title with the club.

Chelsea's summer transfer dealings will be impacted by their position in the Premier League at the end of the season. Enzo Maresca's team are fifth in the top flight and pushing for a place in next season's Champions League. Qualifying for the competition may boost their hopes of signing Huijsen and Hato.