19-year-old star ready to join Liverpool despite holding talks with Arsenal : Reports
Ajax star Jorrel Hato is open to a move to Premier League champions Liverpool despite having held talks with Arsenal, as per reports. The Dutch youngster is one of Europe's most coveted players in his position, with several clubs looking to sign him.
TEAMTalk reports that Hato's camp are keeping their options open ahead of a possible summer switch and consider Liverpool a viable option. The 19-year-old could join as the successor to compatriot Virgil van Dijk in the left-sided centre-back position for the Reds.
Jorrel Hato has distinguished himself as a top talent at Ajax, making 50 appearances for the Dutch giants in the 2024-25 season. He played 36 of those games from centre-back, with 14 coming at left-back, indicating his versatility in defence.
Arsenal have followed Hato since he was 15 years old, a year before he made his professional debut for the Dutch giants. He has been strongly linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, where his role model Jurrien Timber plays, but is open to joining another English side.
A move to Anfield will appeal to the Dutch teenager mostly due to the Dutch contingent at the club. The Reds have a Dutch head coach in Arne Slot, as well as Oranje stalwarts van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo, in their ranks.
Ajax want around €50 million to sanction the sale of Hato, who has captained the club on occasion despite his youth. The Netherlands international is not pushing for an exit from the club but identifies the opportunity to move to England as a chance to further his career.
Arsenal, Liverpool eyeing move for Serie A star: Reports
Arsenal and Liverpool are among a number of sides that are interested in AC Milan forward Rafael Leao this summer, as per reports. The Portuguese forward is wanted by several sides after his side failed to secure a European place for the 2025-26 season.
Journalist Christian Falk has reported (via Metro.co.uk) that the pair of English heavyweights are interested in the 26-year-old forward. The Gunners see him as their plan B if they fail to land Nico Williams from Athletic Club this summer.
Rafael Leao has held talks with Bayern Munich in addition to the reported interest from Liverpool and Arsenal. The former Lille man finished the season with 12 goals and 11 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions, shining in spite of their struggles during the campaign.
