Arsenal keen on Ajax defender Jorrel Hato ahead of January transfer window

Arsenal are interested in signing Ajax defender Jorrel Hato ahead of the January transfer window, according to The Athletic.

The Gunners are looking to bolster their defensive ranks for the second half of 2023-24 following injuries to Jurrien Timber, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Thomas Partey, and the 17-year-old has emerged as a target.

However, Hato would not come cheap and a short-term loan signing remains the most likely option.

The teenage sensation plays as a left-sided centre-back and left-back, and he has already played for the Netherlands senior international team and captains Ajax at times.

Arsenal believe Ajax’s game model is similar to theirs, hence Timber’s swift adaptation, and they reckon Hato is capable of making a similar impact were he to join them.

He dreams of making a similar big move like his former teammate and both parties could look to make something happen next month or wait until the summer transfer window.

The Ajax star has featured in 22 games across all competitions this term, weighing in with a goal and two assists.

Hato is very comfortable with playing out from the back and is an excellent dribbler who loves to tackle, intercept and block balls.

He featured in 15 games last term and has garnered some experience under his belt, but Arsenal may decide they need someone more experienced to help in the run-in as they look to win their first Premier League title since 2004.

The Gunners are short of options at the back and will need to strengthen that position to boost their chances of winning major silverware this term, and signing a new defender will come in handy.