Premier League heavyweights Arsenal have reportedly scouted 18-year-old Dutch defensive sensation Jorrel Hato in the UEFA Nations League this month.
According to a report by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Jorrel Hato is the subject of interest from Arsenal. The Gunners are keen on reinforcing their backline by signing a young and highly-rated centre-back. So, the Ajax defensive sensation is a target for Arsenal, with the North London club scouting the 18-year-old defender in the Netherlands’ UEFA Nations League game against Germany.
The rapid rise of Jorrel Hato
Jorrel Hato has been a rare bright spot for Ajax since graduating from the youth division at the Amsterdam-based club. With the Eredivisie giants struggling in the last two seasons, they have failed to remain competitive across competitions. However, the teenage wonderkid has made his mark whenever he has taken the pitch for Ajax.
The 18-year-old has been a mainstay at the back for Ajax in the last 12 months, with his exploits helping him become a regular for the Netherlands. Hato has turned out 74 times thus far for Ajax while chipping in with three goals and five assists. In addition, the youngster has made two appearances for the Oranje.
Hato was recently in action for the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League clash with Germany. The match saw several high-profile clubs, including Arsenal, send their scouts to watch a few players. The Gunners had their sights set on the Dutch defensive sensation, with Jamie Leweling also on their radar.
London calling?
Jorrel Hato has been on Arsenal’s radar for a long time. The North London club mulled over signing the teenage whizkid in the summer transfer window before a move failed to see the light of day. The continued interest in Hato is understandable, considering he can play as a centre-back and a left-back.
While Mikel Arteta has several players who have played as a left-back this season, Jakub Kiwior might depart from the Emirates next year. So, Hato has emerged as a viable target for Arsenal, as he can alternate with Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber in the left-back berth if he does not play as a centre-back.
Other high-profile clubs have also shown interest in Hato. So, it will be interesting to see if Arsenal can beat the competition to the signature of the 18-year-old Dutch defensive sensation, although the interest might be in the early stages.
