Chelsea seal £37million signing of versatile defender as Blues’ summer spending hits £249m

Chelsea have continued their summer spending by signing Jorrel Hato from Ajax for £37million, following the arrivals of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens and more.

By bringing in the 19-year-old Dutchman, the Blues have secured cover and competition for Marc Cucurella, the left back who was their only natural option in the position last season.

Cucurella played 5,000 minutes in total for club and country over 2024-25, but the 27-year-old Spaniard will now be joined by Hato, who is understood to have penned a seven-year contract.

Hato can also be used as a centre back, and he became the youngest-ever player to captain Ajax when he was 17 years old. He has won six caps for the Netherlands.

Chelsea will continue to work on securing other signings, such as Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United also remains a target.

Chelsea are also looking at outgoings, with Tyrique George potentially up for grabs.

Hato, 19, was one of Ajax’s vice-captains last term and was named Eredivisie Talent of the Year

The Blues have spent £249m this summer, following the arrivals of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens and more

One of their own from Cobham, the 19-year-old Englishman was among those who used the Conference League last season to gain senior minutes under Enzo Maresca.

But with so much competition, including Gittens, the left winger who has been signed from Borussia Dortmund for £48.5m, George may feel he is better served securing game time elsewhere.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea would sanction a permanent move for the teenager who became a fan favourite, or if they will push for an initial loan. RB Leipzig are said to have asked on his situation during talks around Simons.