Real Madrid is after a defender, and among the names that have caught the attention of the club’s sporting director is that of young Ajax Amsterdam center back Jorrel Hato. At just 18 years old, the Dutch international has burst onto the European scene thanks to his solidity, anticipation, and tactical versatility, as he can also play at left back. It is no coincidence that the club’s management has been monitoring him for several months.
Real Madrid has been closely following the player’s progress and considers him one of the most promising defenders in European football. However, there is certainty in Valdebebas that Ajax will demand a very high transfer fee, possibly above market value.
Hato’s versatility fits the profile of Real Madrid
It is not surprising that Real Madrid are showing interest in Jorrel Hato, as the young center back has been one of the sensations of the Dutch league, where he has stood out for his solid tactical work, his leadership at the back, and his ability to play out from the back. Apart from being a center back, he also stands out as a left back, a versatility that is highly valued by the club due to the problems they have in this position.
As mentioned, Real Madrid’s sporting director has been closely following the player’s progress since the beginning of the year. The aim has been to observe his development and performance in high-pressure matches and get an idea of how he might fit in at Real Madrid. The result of this analysis has been positive, but the main obstacle is financial.
The club believes that Ajax could set an exorbitant price for letting their young talent leave. Despite this, his name remains on the list of potential signings to strengthen a defense that has suffered significant losses in recent seasons.
Defense is a priority
The Santiago Bernabéu offices are clear that one of the priorities for this transfer window is tostrengthen the defense. Constant injuries and a lack of strength in key games have highlighted the need to sign a center back for the future, and in this context, Jorrel Hato is not the only name on the list.
Names such as Dean Huijsen and William Saliba top the list. However, the high cost of these operations—the Arsenal player could cost more than €100 million—is forcing the club’s leadership to consider more affordable alternatives. That is where Hato and Dean Huijsen himself come in.
In any case, the club will only take a firm step forward if the financial and sporting conditions are right. The arrival of two center backs is not ruled out if the context allows it.
The future of Jorrel Hato
The figure of Jorrel Hato is gaining more weight in the conversations of the white team; beyond the lack of a decision, it is clear that the player has convinced Real Madrid; his profile fits within the transfer policy of Real Madrid: young, international projection, and experience in European competitions.
Although Ajax will make it very difficult, Valdebebas is not ruling out the option of trying to sign him if the other options become complicated. The reports have been filed away and the debate remains open, but what is clear is that Hato is very much liked by Real Madrid.