Chelsea have reportedly taken the first steps toward securing Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato, with informal talks already held as the club intensifies its search for defensive reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to Mike Verweij via Voetbal Nieuws, the Blues are keen on the 19-year-old Dutch defender, who has also attracted strong interest from Arsenal and Liverpool. Hato, widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the Netherlands, has already made over 100 appearances for Ajax after breaking into the first team as a 16-year-old in 2023.

With his ability to play both as a centre-back and a left-back, Hato offers valuable versatility—something Mikel Arteta at Arsenal especially values. Amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the futures of Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, Arsenal are believed to be seriously monitoring Hato as a long-term solution.

Liverpool, too, are keeping tabs on the Dutch teenager. As Virgil van Dijk nears the end of his peak years and Andrew Robertson’s form begins to dip, Jürgen Klopp’s side could see Hato as a successor capable of filling either defensive role.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are facing their own reshuffle at the back. With doubts over Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile’s futures, and Marc Cucurella needing reliable cover at left-back, Hato fits the profile of a player who could make an immediate impact while also developing into a key long-term asset.

While no formal bid has been made, Chelsea’s early contact signals their serious intent. Whether Arsenal or Liverpool decide to escalate their pursuit could shape what promises to be one of the more intriguing transfer battles of the summer.