Overview

• Jorrel Hato has agreed personal terms with Chelsea and asked to miss Ajax’s preseason fixtures as he pushes for the switch.
• Ajax are holding out for €55–60 million for the 19-year-old defender while Chelsea’s opening offer is around £40 million.
• Direct negotiations have ramped up this week as both clubs work to bridge the remaining valuation gap.
• The Dutch international has made 111 senior appearances for Ajax and can operate at centre-back or left-back, matching Chelsea’s defensive needs.
• Chelsea see Hato’s arrival as vital to bolstering depth and relieving Marc Cucurella from heavy minutes next season.