Despite being just a teenager, Dutch defender Jorrel Hato has already surpassed 100 senior appearances for Ajax — a remarkable achievement that underscores both his talent and maturity. This consistent presence in one of Europe’s most storied clubs has naturally attracted interest from footballing giants across the continent, particularly from the Premier League, where clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal are keeping a close eye on his development.
However, the highly rated center-back has made it clear that he is not in a hurry to make a high-profile move abroad. In a recent interview, Hato displayed a measured and long-term mindset when discussing his career ambitions.
“The smartest thing is to look at it per season. That’s what I do.”
Rather than rushing toward the glitz of Champions League trophies or international acclaim, Hato seems focused on steady, incremental growth. He acknowledged his ambitions to one day compete at the highest levels — such as winning the Champions League, the FIFA World Cup, and the UEFA European Championship — but also emphasized that time is on his side.
“Of course you want to achieve things in the end: the Champions League, a World Cup and a European Championship. I still have plenty of time. I don’t think I absolutely have to win the Champions League in two years.”
This patient and grounded perspective sets Hato apart from many young players who feel pressured to make rapid moves to bigger leagues. His comments suggest that he values development over instant success, and he sees the Eredivisie as a crucial proving ground where he can hone his craft, especially in high-stakes matches against the league’s top sides.
“In the Dutch league you have to show how good you are against the big clubs. Ultimately, I have to continue to develop the things I am already good at, so that it becomes top. How do I describe my time at Ajax? Ajax is home for me. I just feel at home here.”
This sense of belonging at Ajax is critical. The club is known for nurturing young talent and providing a solid platform for players to refine their skills before stepping into the global spotlight. For Hato, Ajax is not merely an employer — it’s where his professional identity is rooted.
That said, football is not just about sentiment. From Ajax’s perspective, Hato’s rising profile makes him a valuable asset — both on the pitch and financially. With three years remaining on his current contract, this summer could be the optimal time for the club to maximize his transfer value. Reports from Football Insider suggest that Ajax would be looking for a fee in the region of £40 million should they decide to sell.
Liverpool, in particular, have expressed interest as they look to bolster their defensive options. However, with other targets such as Sporting Lisbon’s Gonçalo Inácio also on their radar, the Reds may be forced to weigh their priorities carefully.
For the time being, Hato remains focused on his duties at Ajax. Any potential move to the Premier League will hinge not only on transfer negotiations but also on whether the player feels it aligns with his developmental timeline. Until then, fans and scouts alike will continue to watch as one of Europe’s most promising defenders matures — on his own terms
