Liverpool’s blooming transfer window has been dominated by noise surrounding the frontline
Liverpool Step Up Jorrel Hato Pursuit Amid £200M Summer Rebuild and Wirtz Chase
Liverpool’s transfer window is gathering serious momentum as Florian Wirtz edges closer to a British-record switch to Anfield. With Jeremie Frimpong already signed and Milos Kerkez closing in on a move from Bournemouth, Arne Slot’s revolution is rapidly taking shape.
While attacking uncertainty looms over Darwin Núñez, Federico Chiesa, and Luis Díaz—who is drawing attention from Barcelona and Saudi clubs—Liverpool’s sights are now shifting to reinforce their central defence, especially after missing out on one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders.
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Why Liverpool Need a Centre-Back
Last month, Dean Huijsen—labelled by analysts as “the most in-demand centre-back in the world”—joined Real Madrid after they activated his £50m release clause. Liverpool had been keen on the 20-year-old Spaniard but lost out to the La Liga giants.
With Virgil van Dijk extending his stay at Anfield, there’s temporary relief, but the Dutch icon is now 33, and Liverpool must prepare for the long term.
While names like Marc Guéhi and Ousmane Diomande have been linked, attention has now turned to Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato, who could be the ideal addition to a new-look Liverpool defence.
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Jorrel Hato: The Huijsen Alternative
Liverpool have initiated contact with Ajax regarding Jorrel Hato, according to Caught Offside. Sporting director Richard Hughes is believed to have approached the Dutch club to gauge the viability of a deal for the versatile 19-year-old defender.
Chelsea currently lead the race after engaging with the player’s entourage, while Arsenal are also monitoring closely. But Liverpool’s growing Dutch contingent and strategic need could make Anfield the ideal destination.
Ajax, resigned to losing their academy gem, are demanding a €50m (£43m) fee—one they won’t budge on.
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Why Liverpool Want Hato
Hato, despite being only 19, has already amassed 111 senior appearances for Ajax and is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most complete young defenders.
Though deployed largely as a left-back last season, his natural position is centre-back, and his stats reflect his elite level:
• 🔵 Top 2% for pass completion among Eredivisie full-backs (FBref)
• 🟡 Top 12% for assists per 90
• 🔴 1.9 tackles per game (Sofascore)
• ⚪ 52% duel success rate, despite being played out of position
For context, Huijsen—while operating as a central defender—registered a 56% duel success rate and just 1.1 tackles per game in the Premier League.
Talent scout Jacek Kulig calls Hato “one of the most talented centre-backs in Europe in his generation,” and Liverpool may see him as the eventual successor to Van Dijk.
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What Hato Could Offer Liverpool
With Jarell Quansah reportedly on the radar of several clubs and often filling in at right-back, Hato’s positional versatility could be invaluable. His composure, stamina, and high football IQ make him a prime candidate to thrive in the Premier League’s intense environment.
Liverpool won’t see the €50m price tag as a risk. If anything, it’s an investment into elite defensive succession planning. Slot’s high-intensity, possession-based style demands defenders who are technically sound and mentally sharp—boxes Hato already ticks.
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Conclusion
While Liverpool’s headline moves this summer will be defined by the potential arrival of Florian Wirtz, the importance of securing a centre-back of Jorrel Hato’s calibre cannot be overstated. As Trent Alexander-Arnold begins a new chapter abroad, and the attacking trio sees potential departures, the Anfield hierarchy is making bold, strategic moves.
Jorrel Hato could be next—the perfect mix of youth, experience, and elite pedigree to help carry Liverpool into the next era.