Real Madrid Eye Ajax’s Young Defender Jorrel Hato Amid Squad Rebuilding

Madrid, Spain — Real Madrid is reportedly monitoring the progress of Ajax‘s 18-year-old defender Jorrel Hato, as the club aims to bolster its defense ahead of future seasons. Hato, who has made a significant impact at Ajax this year, has emerged as a prime target for the Spanish giants, with a reported price tag of €30-40 million.

Despite his age, Hato has already proven himself a key player for Ajax, amassing over 2,900 minutes in 35 matches this season. His involvement in 10 goals showcases not only his defensive capabilities but also his potential to contribute offensively, which adds to his appeal for Real Madrid.

Hato’s versatility, allowing him to play both centre-back and full-back, aligns with Real Madrid’s needs for a dynamic defender capable of adapting to various tactical setups. As the club seeks to address defensive weaknesses, Hato’s all-around skill set positions him as a strong candidate for a long-term role within the team.

“Jorrel has shown remarkable maturity for his age. His ability to perform consistently at the highest level makes him a valuable asset,” said a source close to the Ajax camp.

Looking ahead, a potential transfer to Madrid could mark a pivotal moment in Hato’s career, as the club aims to strengthen its defensive lineup with promising talent.

In a separate development concerning Real Madrid, Arda Guler, regarded as one of Europe’s brightest prospects, has faced challenges in securing regular playing time this season. Guler has played less than 1,000 minutes and started only six of the 16 league matches so far.

The situation has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich, all of which have reportedly noted Guler’s struggles at the Santiago Bernabeu. Liverpool, who had previously pursued Guler, are keen to explore the possibility of signing him if he becomes available.

“It’s clear that he has incredible talent, but sometimes the right environment is crucial for a player to flourish,” stated a representative from one of the interested clubs.

Manchester United has also shown interest in Guler, as they look to revamp their squad amid a difficult season. Bayern Munich is contemplating a potential loan deal for the young star, following past strategies that facilitated the acquisitions of other talents.

Both Hato and Guler represent part of a new generation of footballers who could significantly impact their respective clubs in the coming years. As the transfer window approaches, their futures remain topics of considerable speculation in European football.