Liverpool are considering whether to make a move for Ajax defender Jorrel Hato before the transfer window closes next week, according to reports.
The teenager has been identified as a potential replacement for captain Virgil van Dijk but there was an assumption that the Reds would wait until the summer to table an offer.
However, TEAMtalk claims that interest from rival clubs may force them into bidding for Hato ahead of Deadline Day next Monday.
They report that Ajax have recently received enquiries from both Chelsea and Real Madrid about the 18-year-old’s availability.
Why is Hato in such high demand?
Despite his age, the youngster has already captained Ajax on several occasions, having made 92 appearances for the first team. He has also been capped 5 times by the Netherlands at senior level.
Hato’s ability to play both at centre-half and left-back make him a multi-faceted player too. This season, he has actually played exclusively as a fullback but many feel his long-term future lies in the middle of defence.
What is the latest on van Dijk’s future at Liverpool?
Speaking after the club’s 4-1 win over Ipswich Town at the weekend, the Dutchman said that he has no news regarding a new contract:
“I have no idea [how many more appearances I’ll make]. How many are left this season? Hopefully, those are guaranteed and then I don’t know what the future will bring.”
Considering that van Dijk remains at the very top of his game, fans will be keen for him to remain at Anfield but it appears that sporting director Richard Hughes and the recruitment team have a succession plan in place if he does end up leaving in the summer. While a move for Hato this month would be a surprise, it is a situation to keep an eye on.
Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for 2024/2025 season here