Arsenal targets Ajax defender Jorrel Hato for £42m

Arsenal is interested in Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, who is also being considered by Liverpool. Hato, just 19 years old, is one of the top young defenders in Europe. He has played 19 times for the Netherlands and had a strong season with Ajax, featuring mainly as a left-back. Liverpool had wanted to sign Hato as a potential replacement for Virgil van Dijk, who has not signed a new deal. Although Liverpool did not make a bid during the winter transfer window, they have continued to watch Hato's progress. Arsenal, dealing with injuries at left-back, recently sent scouts to watch Hato play. Ajax initially valued Hato at €30 million, but with rising competition, they now seek between €45-50 million. Other clubs like Real Madrid, Chelsea, and AC Milan are also monitoring Hato's situation. Real Madrid and Chelsea have also sent scouts to observe him. Milan sees Hato as a replacement for their left-back but may struggle with the transfer fee. Hato joined Ajax's academy in 2018 and has quickly moved up, becoming a key player for the team. He is considered a modern defender, good with the ball and has a promising future ahead.