Arsenal is escalating its pursuit of Ajax's talented defender Jorrel Hato, who has also caught the eye of Liverpool as the club seeks a successor for the aging Virgil van Dijk. This comes as other elite clubs like Real Madrid, Chelsea, and AC Milan have also expressed interest in the 19-year-old speeds up the competition for his signature.

Hato is quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders, having earned 19 caps for the Netherlands national team despite his tender age. Last season, he was a regular starter for Ajax, making 36 appearances as a center-back, but he has shifted to a left-back role this season. In this position, he has made an impressive impact with three goals and six assists in just 40 appearances.

Reports indicate that Liverpool was keen to make a move for Hato in January, targeting him as a critical acquisition for the summer of 2025. However, with Van Dijk’s contract renewal still up in the air, the Reds are eager to secure Hato before their rivals can finalize a deal.

Recently, Arsenal sent scouts to assess Hato in action, particularly in light of their left-back injury concerns, notably with Riccardo Calafiori sidelined. Initial assessments from Ajax pegged Hato's transfer value at €30 million (£25 million), but with demand surging, the Dutch giants are now looking for offers in the ballpark of €45-50 million (£37.6 million to £41.8 million).

Besides Arsenal and Liverpool, both Real Madrid and Chelsea have taken a keen interest, with Madrid also eyeing AC Milan's Theo Hernandez as part of their strategy to bolster their defense. Meanwhile, AC Milan views Hato as a potential replacement for Hernandez, but his hefty price tag could hinder their efforts.

Latest reports reveal that Arsenal is keeping its options open. They have reportedly withdrawn from pursuing Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes while strategically focusing on securing a striker. Notable names linked include Alexander Isak of Newcastle and Brentford's dynamic forward Bryan Mbeumo.

Jorrel Hato is a product of Ajax’s youth academy, having joined from Sparta Rotterdam in 2018. A natural leader, he captained Ajax in the UEFA Youth League and made a significant impression on the first team, cementing his place as a starter by the end of last season, including in the KNVB Cup final.

With 46 appearances under his belt for the current season, including some as captain, Hato’s versatility allows him to effectively play both left-back and center-back. His technical skill and intelligence on the ball signify that he is tailored for modern football and potentially set for greatness in the years ahead.

As the transfer window approaches, the race for Hato intensifies, making it a thrilling watch for fans and clubs alike—who will ultimately secure this rising star?