New Delhi: Jorrel Hato, a defender for Ajax, is a fresh addition to Liverpool’s transfer market cart, as they hope to strengthen this January. The Reds’ strategic approach to the current transfer window is highlighted by reports that they are now considering an earlier acquisition, despite initially being viewed as a summer target.
Liverpool’s defensive setup could be disrupted because Virgil van Dijk’s future is still up in the air. The club’s transfer negotiations are made more urgent by the ambiguity surrounding the club captain’s contract, which is coming to an end even though an offer is on the table. According to certain reports, Virgil van Dijk’s future at the club is still unclear at Anfield, underscoring the risk of depending just on contract renewals.
Liverpool’s management, under the direction of Arne Slot, is responding by reassessing their schedule for adding more players. Hato stands out as a particularly alluring choice because of his versatility as a left-back and center-back. Hato is a perfect fit to fit into Liverpool’s strategic plan because of Slot’s admiration for his abilities, namely his versatility and potential as a young defender.
Other top European sides are also after Hato
📸 | Jorrel Hato was spotted at Anfield yesterday during our match against Ipswich.
Via @YagzLfc pic.twitter.com/nKJ2zQdHE7
— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) January 26, 2025
The growing competition from other elite teams—Real Madrid and Chelsea have also shown interest in the gifted defender—further supports Liverpool’s pressing interest in Hato. This competitive environment is probably the reason Liverpool is thinking of accelerating their chase. In order to prevent a a big time competition for Hato, Liverpool is assessing whether to predict their strategy.
Financially speaking, Hato’s €30 million asking price seems fair for a player with his potential and versatility given Ajax’s current financial situation. According to TEAMtalk, “Ajax would not want to lose him in this winter transfer window, but they could evaluate his sale now for an offer of around €30m/£25m.” In addition to bolstering their team, this calculated move might help Liverpool land a young player at a competitive price.
Hato isn’t the target that Liverpool have
Hato is not the only addition to Liverpool’s transfer strategy. In an attempt to strengthen other positions, the team has been connected to a number of other players, such as Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth and Rayan Cherki of Lyon. But Hato’s possible early signing might set the tone for Liverpool’s operations and goals in this and future transfer windows. However, another need for the Reds would certainly be a proper replacement for Mo Salah. Chiesa can certainly be an option, but at the same time, with further fresh talents taking up the big stage, Liverpool would certainly look at a few options.
Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on highly-rated Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, valued at £25 million. The 18-year-old Dutch talent is being tracked by other top clubs as well. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today