Liverpool have made Ajax left-back Jorrel Hato one of their top targets, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.

Writing on the Rousing the Kop website, Bailey claimed that the Netherlands international has been identified as a potential replacement for either Virgil van Dijk or Andy Robertson.

Hato can play as a fullback or in the middle of defence and that would make him a good option for a ‘hybrid’ role. Fans on X are excited about the prospect of the 18-year-old moving to Anfield:

Yes please, he is so good

— Addi (@Addiynwa) November 13, 2024

Would honestly be class

— Biscuit (@BattMorbon) November 13, 2024

Left back yes, he is too small as a centre back

— CJTrix10 (@CjTrix10) November 14, 2024

Iffy source but the player is someone we should be all over

— futbolconvert (@futbolconvert) November 13, 2024

Hato>hincapie

— gxldeorigi (@Antonio99149546) November 13, 2024

hes amazing

— Dino 🇳🇱 (@DinooLFC) November 13, 2024

Please be true 🙏

— Martin-Luther (@Mvrtn22) November 13, 2024

Arsenal have also considered signing Hato

Several respected sources have linked the Gunners with a move for the teenager. However, after he signed a new contract with Ajax earlier this year, their interest cooled and they bought Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna instead.

It means they are unlikely to revive their interest in Hato in the near future, leaving the way clear for Liverpool to make an approach.

Will van Dijk leave Liverpool?

Some fans will be concerned by the fact that Hato is being touted as a possible successor for van Dijk. The club captain’s contract expires at the end of the season and there has been no breakthrough in talks over an extension.

Van Dijk has publicly spoken out to say that he is keen to stay but the Reds will have to put contingency plans in place just in case a new deal is not signed.

Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for 2024/2025 season here