After Sesko: Romano Says Arsenal 'Make Phone Call' to Sign 'Generational' Star

Arsenal's interest in Ajax defender Jorrel Hato hints at potential summer moves that might influence betting lines. As both Arsenal and Chelsea pursue Hato, the potential for a transfer deal could affect Arsenal's odds for next season, making them a team to watch for punters considering outright winners or top-four finishes.

Arsenal are showing keen interest in a summer move for promising Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed.

The Gunners reportedly ‘made a phone call’ last week to learn about the Dutch international’s potential availability, as they aim to sign a talented defender for Mikel Arteta this summer.

While talks are not yet at an advanced stage, Hato is attracting interest from at least two Premier League clubs, with Chelsea also staying informed on his situation.

The 19-year-old, praised as 'one of the best talents in Europe', is under contract with Ajax until June 2028.

Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, has revealed that both Chelsea and Arsenal are aiming to bring in a promising defender this summer and have earmarked Hato as an option:

“From what I’m hearing this week, after the calls from Chelsea, since the Dean Huijsen deal didn’t happen for Chelsea and Arsenal, both clubs remain interested in Jorrel Hato.

“And my understanding is that, in the last week, after Chelsea in recent weeks, also Arsenal started calling to be informed on the situation of Jorrel Hato.

“So he remains a player appreciated by Chelsea and also Arsenal. Because they are looking for a talented defender, both clubs are looking for that kind of profile for the summer, and Hato remains in the list of both clubs.

“So after Chelsea, after the Huijsen story, also now Arsenal are calling for Jorrel Hato. So let’s see what’s going to happen there.

“At the moment it’s still not the time to describe that as an advanced deal or anything close to being completed, but some calls are ongoing.”

Hato, who made his senior Ajax debut in January 2023, has been a regular for the Dutch club since, amassing 111 first-team appearances and registering 13 goal involvements.

The 19-year-old, praised as a 'generational talent', would bring versatility to the Emirates this summer, as he is able to cover both at left-back and centre-back, although he has mostly played on the left for Ajax this season.

Arsenal have yet to announce their first piece of summer business but are expected to soon confirm the arrivals of Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi.

The latter will join the Gunners in a reported £51m deal from Real Sociedad, while Chelsea outcast Kepa will see his £5m release clause triggered.

Jorrel Hato's Ajax Stats (2024/25 Eredivisie)
Games 31
Starts 30
Goals 2
Assists 6
Minutes played 2,592

Fabrizio Romano has discussed Viktor Gyokeres' future at Sporting CP, amid links to Manchester United and Arsenal.

Statistics courtesy of Fbref and Transfermarkt.

Arsenal are showing keen interest in a summer move for the promising 19-year-old defender.

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