Liverpool are already interested in Jorrel Hato, tipped as the next ‘Matthijs de Ligt’ after the teenager’s recent exploits with Ajax.
According to Football Transfers, Liverpool could approach Ajax for their 17-year-old Dutch wonderkid Jorrel Hato. The teenager has made a massive impression on many following his thorough breakthrough into the Amterdam-based Eredivisie giants.
Liverpool had a decent transfer window in which they may have made some necessary changes to their squad. Jurgen Klopp wanted to address two key areas of his team but could not focus on the defence as the Saudi money disrupted his plans.
One of Klopp’s key objectives included a left-footed centre-back. Liverpool are the only top-six club without one. Virgil van Dijk has marshalled the role for many years now, and with signs of the Dutchman’s age catching up with his agility to play at the highest level, the club are already thinking about a succession plan.
The base idea involved paying a hefty fee to sign someone already established in the position. That plan may still materialise for the next few years, but Liverpool also want to put a long-term objective in place, and that could see them try signing a young, budding star in the role.
One player that has caught their attention is 17-year-old Dutch wonderkid Jorrel Hato. The Ajax starlet has made himself known with some mature performances for the first team since last season, and the departures of players during the summer have brought him to prominence.
Hato has started all five of Ajax’s games this season alone, including two in the Europa League qualifiers. In each of those matches, the 17-year-old has played the full 90 minutes, which shows the coaching staff’s level of confidence in him.
Furthermore, Hato has already drawn comparisons to former Ajax star Matthijs de Ligt. The departure of Jurrien Timber, Kalvin Bassey, Wen Wijndal and Jorge Sanchez during the window has opened the door for the 17-year-old Dutch wonderkid to make his mark, and he has taken the chance with both hands.
Ajax are keen to extend his deal, and many around the club would necessarily advise the youngster to stay put for a few years before making the move. However, with Liverpool’s defence set for a refresh, he might consider taking his chances with a big move to Anfield.
Alternatively, if Ajax makes it to the Champions League next season, they might consider a big-money approach for their highly coveted defender. Liverpool will stay alert to the possibility, as they might view Hato as the long-term successor to Van Dijk.
