The plan for the young Dutchman is as ambitious as it is strategic, and Chelsea is getting closer to signing Ajax defender Jorrel Hato. Stamford Bridge sources claim that the club views the £35–40 million transfer as the start of a meticulously planned mentor-mentee relationship with Marc Cucurella, in addition to squad reinforcement.
Manager Enzo Maresca wants complete rotational flexibility at every position this season, according to club insiders. Depth is now essential when juggling aspirations for the Premier League, domestic cup, and a return to the Champions League. Last season, Cucurella played in 54 games and accrued over 4,300 minutes. The strain was evident.
Hato meets Chelsea’s requirements for workload reduction without sacrificing performance. They stress that although Hato is not anticipated to replace Cucurella in Maresca’s starting lineup right away, the Dutch player has advanced more than many of his peers. He is older and more skilled than the majority of his peers in football.
Hato Has Impressed the Scouts at Chelsea
In football terms, he is older than most of his peers and better, too. By the age of 19, Hato had made over 100 senior appearances and captained Ajax. His ability to play both left and centre back already demonstrates his tactical versatility, which will be crucial in Maresca’s high-possession style. Although Ajax first demanded £60 million, a fee of about £40 million is anticipated to seal the deal.
The fact that Cucurella, who is getting close to 27, is reportedly in line for a new contract further solidifies his position as the pair’s senior member. Chelsea hopes Hato can take inspiration from his transformation from being jeered at Stamford Bridge to becoming a fan favourite.The Cucurella-Hato axis might turn out to be one of the Blues’ best long-term strategies as they restructure their team for a demanding season.
Despite being offered a new contract, Cucurella is still the top pick; however, his workload will now be more effectively managed.
