Chelsea are reportedly reconsidering their interest in Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, despite being the most active Premier League side pursuing the young talent.
Hato, 19, who has Cape Verdean heritage but represents the Netherlands internationally, has been on the radar of several English clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool.
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea are now having second thoughts about a potential summer move for the highly-rated centre-back.
While the Blues initially saw Hato as a promising addition to their defensive line, recent performances have reportedly raised concerns within the club’s scouting department.
Hato, who broke into Ajax’s senior team in 2022, has already made over 100 appearances for the Dutch giants, showcasing his rapid development and potential.
However, his high-profile errors in Ajax’s 4-0 loss to Utrecht earlier in the season are said to have made Chelsea reconsider their stance.
Instead, the West London club are now believed to be prioritising a move for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, as they look to strengthen their backline ahead of the next Premier League campaign.
This shift in focus suggests Chelsea are seeking a more experienced option to complement their defensive setup.
Despite the uncertainty, Hato remains a sought-after prospect, with Arsenal and Liverpool still monitoring his situation closely.
With Ajax reportedly open to selling the teenager if a significant offer arrives, the coming months could prove crucial in shaping the young defender’s next career step.
