According to @Glongari, the Gunners are keen to speed up negotiations and gain an early advantage, with competition for the Netherlands international intensifying. Mikel Arteta is believed to be a major admirer of Hato’s composure, versatility, and leadership qualities, despite his young age.
As reported by Mark Brus at CaughtOffside, Arsenal had initially shown interest in Hato last summer, but the expectation at the time was that he would remain in Amsterdam for another season to continue his development. With another year of Eredivisie and European experience under his belt, the timing now appears right for a move.
A well-placed source told CaughtOffside: “Arsenal has initiated official discussions with Ajax and held positive talks with Hato’s representatives. A six-year contract proposal is on the table, and the player is carefully evaluating Arsenal’s long-term project.”
Sébastien Vidal was another source to cover this news, this morning sharing the news on X: ‘Arsenal have submitted a 6-year contract offer to Ajax defender Jorrel Hato (19). Talks are progressing with both the player’s camp and Ajax. The versatile left-footed centre-back is now closer to Arsenal, with Chelsea trailing behind. Estimated fee: €50m.’
Hato’s potential arrival would likely impact Arsenal’s current defensive setup, particularly Jakub Kiwior. The Polish international has filled in at both left-back and left centre-back — positions where Hato also operates. With Kieran Tierney gone and potentially Oleksandr Zinchenko expected to depart, there may be some room on the left, but the competition remains fierce. Gabriel Magalhães is established in the LCB role, Riccardo Calafiori is heavily linked, and Myles Lewis-Skelly is set to sign a new contract.
While the left side appears congested, Arsenal are still in need of depth and quality on the right side of defence. Options like Joel Ordonez, Nathan Collins, and Marc Guehi are all reportedly being monitored as Andrea Berta continues shaping the club’s defensive rebuild.
The fans will be more interested in what Arsenal may be able to add in attack, with midfielder Martin Zubimendi set to sign and talks advancing for Hato, there’s still no real progress on a new striker.