Real Madrid will reportedly compete with Arsenal in the race to sign 17-year-old Dutch wonderkid Jorrel Hato from Ajax.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Jorrel Hato is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The history-making 17-year-old wonderkid is gaining popularity in the market due to his exploits with Ajax. Meanwhile, the youngster is also a target for Premier League heavyweights Arsenal.
Jorrel Hato: A Whizkid on the Rise
Jorrel Hato is the latest prodigy to emerge in his homeland, with the Netherlands producing an array of highly-rated prospects. The Dutch defender is a graduate of the fabled Ajax youth division, making his first-team debut as a 16-year-old last year. He has also made his debut on the international stage, turning out once for the Oranje.
The 17-year-old has already made history in his young career, donning the armband for Ajax and becoming the club’s youngest-ever skipper. The Rotterdam native has turned out 40 times thus far for the Dutch giants, chipping in with one goal and two assists. Meanwhile, Hato’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Arsenal and Real Madrid.
Arsenal, Real Madrid Keen on Jorrel Hato
Arsenal’s interest in Jorrel Hato stems from the uncertainties surrounding Jakub Kiwior’s long-term future. The Polish international has struggled to establish a foothold at the Emirates, with a summer move on the cards. But Arsenal will not part ways with Kiwior this month as they strive to win the Premier League title.
Nonetheless, Hato is a viable target to replace Kiwior later this year. The history-making 17-year-old wonderkid can also replace Gabriel Magalhaes as the first-choice left-sided centre-back. But Arsenal will face stiff competition from Real Madrid for the youngster’s signature.
Real Madrid will likely enter the market for a central defender in the summer transfer window. David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Nacho are on the wrong side of 30, with Alaba recovering from a long-term injury. In addition, Nacho is in the final months of his contract, with a departure on the cards. So, it behoves Real Madrid to invest in a centre-back, with Jorrel Hato emerging as a viable target.
The Merengues have also shown interest in other left-footed centre-backs, including Alessandro Bastoni. But Hato is also an option worth considering. But a January move is unlikely, with Ajax striving to return to the European qualification spots. It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid can beat Arsenal to the 17-year-old wonderkid.
