The 19-year-old defender has penned a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge through to 2032 and will join up with his new team-mates this week.

‘I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here,’ said Hato. ‘I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that so I’m very happy.’

Born in Rotterdam, Hato began his football journey with local side Sparta before moving to Ajax’s youth academy in 2018. He signed his first professional contract in 2022 at just 16 and quickly made his mark in both the UEFA Youth League and for Jong Ajax, the club’s reserve side.

That same year, he became the third-youngest player ever to debut for Ajax in the Eredivisie, aged 16, in a match against Cambuur. By the end of the season, he was starting in the Dutch Cup final — a testament to his rapid rise.

He was still 16 when he became the third-youngest player to debut for Ajax in the Eredivisie in a game against Cambuur in February 2023. He finished the campaign starting in the Dutch Cup final.

Since the start of the 2023/24 season, Hato has been virtually ever-present in the Ajax side. He is equally as comfortable in the heart of defence as he is at left-back, featuring most often in the latter position during the season just gone.

Hato is strong in the tackle, comfortable carrying the ball forward and has leadership skills that bely his age. He captained Ajax as a 17-year-old.

On the international stage, his progress has been equally impressive. Hato made his senior debut for the Netherlands aged 17 and has already earned six caps, as well as captaining the Dutch side at the UEFA Under-21 European Championship this summer.

Welcome to Chelsea, Jorrel!

Chelsea fans have the chance to celebrate our hugely successful 2024/25 campaign with players from both our men's team and women's team at an exclusive event at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday. Get your tickets now.