Jorrel Hato enters Liverpool conversations as Arne Slot looks for Van Dijk replacement | OneFootball

According to reports from England and journalist Graeme Bailey, Liverpool’s search for a future centre-back staple has brought up Ajax’s Jorrel Hato.

The Reds are looking for defensive reinforcements and are said to have ended their search with the Ajax player. He was previously also linked to Real Madrid.

While Liverpool have had an excellent start to the season under Arne Slot, the Reds’ solid defence has been tinged with uncertainty as Virgil van Dijk (33) may be reaching the twilight of his career and also has an expiring contract.

In their search for potential heirs to Van Dijk’s defensive throne, how fitting it seems, that Liverpool have turned their attention to 18-year-old Oranje newbie, Hato.

Hato has allegedly been promoted to ‘top transfer target’ for the summer of 2025 and the Ajax player would be in the Anfield picture as a central defender, while he currently plays at left-back under Francesco Farioli.

It is not the first time that Hato has been linked to one of Europe’s top clubs. Fabrizio Romano reported on Monday that Real Madrid had registered their interest. Arsenal and Juventus have also been mentioned, although the latter have cast their net wide – including Feyenoord’s David Hancko.

Jorrel Hato has a contract with Ajax until mid-2028. His market value is estimated at thirty million euros.

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield