Arsenal interest scares Euro giant braced for bid for ‘complete’ teen’s transfer

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AFC Ajax are now bracing themselves for Arsenal and further top European teams to submit bids for the transfer of star defender Jorrel Hato during the summer window.

The 17-year-old sensation has been a real shining light of what has largely been a bleak term in Amsterdam. Hato has established himself as one of the top defenders at Ajax and has also captained the Eredivisie giants. But his form at the Johan Cruyff Arena has put sides on alert.

Hato has also captured the admiration of clubs across the continent, such as Arsenal, as the Netherlands international’s contract only runs to June 2025. So, the Evening Standard notes that Ajax are working to give their academy product new terms to fend off the vast interest.

Ajax fear Arsenal and more will bid for Jorrel Hato this summer

Ajax fear clubs like Arsenal will target Hato’s transfer if the Rotterdam native does not agree to sign new terms. De Godenzonen know that the Gunners are among his many suitors for a summer switch, so are striving to strike an agreement to strengthen their hand for any talks.

Johan Cruyff Arena chiefs further accept that Hato is deserving of an improved contract as a reward for his displays. The 5 ft 11 gem has shone as a centre-half and a left-back this term. He has also started in all 34 of their fixtures in all competitions and played all 3,090 minutes.

Scouts from around Europe have further noted Hato’s strength in possession, along with his versatility – one trait that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta especially likes. But Ajax aim to improve their position by giving Hato a new contract before Arsenal et al can seek a summer transfer.

Jorrel Hato appreciates replicating Jurrien Timber’s transfer

Arsenal considered targeting Hato’s transfer from Ajax in the January market but, ultimately, held off on bidding, per The Athletic. The Gunners appreciate his versatility and believe Hato can quickly adapt to Arteta’s system. But de Godenzonen’s asking price delayed any swoop.

Now, Ajax fear Arsenal will advance their interest in the summer transfer window and target Hato, who talent scout Jacek Kulig calls a ‘complete and dominant’ talent. The pacy ace has given signs that Hato appreciates a transfer to Arsenal after seeing Jurrien Timber move.

“He is still young and has a bright future ahead of him,” Hato told ELF Voetbal this October about Timber. “In any case, the move to Arsenal was a wonderful one for him. It is also my dream to one day make such a transfer. But I realise that I still have a very long way to go.”