Hato to Chelsea latest: Blues achieve 'breakthrough' in transfer negotiations with Ajax

Chelsea have reportedly made a breakthrough in their pursuit of Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.

The Blues have already splashed the cash to make a number of signings this summer, including the arrivals of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens and Dario Essugo. 

Chelsea are now working on a deal to bolster their defensive options with the addition of Ajax's Hato. 

According to Sky Sports News, Chelsea are getting ever closer to unveiling the 19-year-old as the newest member of Enzo Maresca's squad.

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Chelsea make Hato breakthrough

Chelsea 'made a breakthrough' in negotiations after holding positive talks with Ajax on Tuesday.

The two clubs will continue discussions on Wednesday, as they look to reach a final agreement over a transfer. 

It has previously been reported that Chelsea will have to pay over £35m to sign a player who is under contract until the summer of 2028. 

Hato asked not to be included in Ajax's squads for the two Como Cup matches, despite travelling to Italy with his teammates. 

In his absence, Ajax cruised to a 5-1 victory over Celtic in the semi-final, before losing 3-0 to Como in the final of the pre-season tournament. 

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Cucurella competition or replacement?

Chelsea are looking to sign Hato at a time when Cucurella has seen his name linked with a potential move to the Saudi Pro League.

However, the Club World Cup winners have no plans to part ways with the Spain international during the current transfer window.

In fact, Chelsea are preparing to offer Cucurella a new contract to recognise his importance to their long-term plans. 

Cucurella's status as Chelsea's first-choice left-back means that Hato will have to settle for a role as the Spaniard's understudy.

With that said, Hato's versatility also allows him to stake a claim to play as one of the two centre-backs in Maresca's starting lineup.