Chelsea ‘have their eyes’ on Ajax centre-back Jorrel Hato, according to Calciomercato.com.

The Italian website claims that the Blues have joined Arsenal and Inter Milan in pursuing the 17-year-old who has already become a regular starter for his club.

Hato has made 35 appearances in all competitions this season, and he was even given his first senior cap for the Netherlands in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Gibraltar back in November.

His performances have attracted the attention of a host of teams, with Chelsea the latest to run the rule over the player.

Hato is keen on moving to English football

Calciomercato report that the teenager “dreams” of making a big move to the Premier League. However, they suggest Brexit rules could “complicate” any transfer.

Clubs in England cannot sign players under the age of 18 from abroad but it should be pointed out that Hato will turn 18 in just a few days, meaning a summer move should be possible.

Chelsea could take advantage of the player’s contract situation

At the moment, Hato’s current deal expires in 2025, which suggests that Ajax could be forced into selling him at the end of the season if an extension can’t be agreed.

Based on recent reports, it does seem very likely that the centre-half will put pen to paper on a new deal, but there is still a good possibility that the player will be sold.

Of course, if a new contract is signed, the Blues would probably need to pay a significant fee in order to seal Hato’s services. With the likes of Arsenal, Inter and others circling, Ajax won’t be prepared to sell him on the cheap.

Even so, this is definitely a transfer to keep an eye on, especially as it appears that the youngster is looking to join a Premier League team.