Ajax turn down Chelsea’s initial bid for target Jorrel Hato

Ajax defender Jorrel Hato is eager to join Chelsea

According to Dutch sources, Ajax have rejected Chelsea's first offer for 19-year-old defender Jorrel Hato and sent the London club a counteroffer.

ESPN reported on Thursday that Ajax respect Jorrel Hato's desire to leave, but also wish to keep the young defender as the Amsterdam club head into their first UEFA Champions League campaign since 2022.

A first offer from Chelsea, rumoured to be €40 million, as the Blues follow the benchmark set by former Ajax defender Jurrien Timber, who Arsenal acquired for that exact fee, was rejected by Ajax, who reportedly wish to receive anywhere between €55 and €60 million for Hato.

Hato himself has already reached a personal agreement with Chelsea. Hato's agent, Humphry Nijman, has confirmed Chelsea is in talks with Ajax about a transfer for the youngster.

The 19-year-old Hato debuted for Ajax in 2023 at the age of 16 and became the youngest player in club history to record 100 appearances for the club.

Hato is under contract at Ajax until the summer fo 2028.