Chelsea Football Club has confirmed the signing of Netherlands international, Jorrel Hato, from Ajax, securing the highly rated teenage defender on a long-term contract until 2032.
The 19-year-old will join up with his new team-mates at Stamford Bridge this week as preparations for the new season continue.
In a post shared via X on Sunday, the club announced, “Chelsea is delighted to announce the signing of Netherlands international Jorrel Hato from Ajax.”
Hato was also quoted on Chelsea’s website as saying, “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 so I’m very happy.”
Born in Rotterdam, Hato began his football journey with local club, Sparta, before joining Ajax’s youth academy in 2018.
He signed his first professional contract in 2022 at just 16 and quickly made an impact in both the UEFA Youth League and for Jong Ajax, the club’s reserve side.
In February 2023, Hato became the third-youngest player to make his Eredivisie debut for Ajax, appearing in a match against Cambuur at age 16.
By the end of that same season, he had earned a starting place in the Dutch Cup final.
During the 2023/24 campaign, Hato was a regular fixture in the Ajax line-up, featuring predominantly at left-back, though he is also comfortable in central defence.
Known for his strength in the tackle, composure on the ball, and natural leadership, he even captained Ajax as a 17-year-old.
On the international front, Hato made his senior debut for the Netherlands aged 17 and has since earned six caps.
This summer, he also captained the Dutch side at the UEFA Under-21 European Championship, further underlining his rapid development on the global stage.
