Liverpool are said to be locked in a battle for Ajax defender Jorrel Hato with the likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal and Chelsea.
The Reds have enjoyed an impressive season under new boss Arne Slot and look certain to win the Premier League title considering they are currently 12 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal.
However, while Slot has excelled during his time at Anfield, several stars have come under scrutiny for their performances in 2024-25, including veteran Andrew Robertson.
The left-back has been a stalwart in the XI since displacing Alberto Moreno from the starting lineup in the 2017-18 season, but defensive lapses this campaign have brought his long-term future into question.
CaughtOffside claim that Liverpool are among a number of clubs readying themselves to make a move for 19-year-old Ajax defender Hato, who has impressed during his time with the Dutch giants.
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Hato in profile
Hato made his debut for Ajax in the 2022-23 season aged just 16 and has managed to establish himself as a regular in 2024-25, starting 22 times in the Eredivisie and 16 times in the Europa League.
The teenager is comfortable operating as a centre-back but has predominantly played as a left-back, though he is capable of inverting into midfield zones unlike Robertson.
Robertson was renowned for his ability to overlap at pace and provide support to Liverpool's offensive lines, and while Hato is not as energetic as the Scotsman, he is still adept at holding width on the left flank.
Hato can be caught out when forced to carry the ball - he is an excellent passer - but he would arguably suit Slot's possession-oriented system more than Robertson, who was a perfect fit for previous boss Jurgen Klopp's aggressive playstyle.
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Can Reds win the race?
Liverpool have frequently been linked with a move for a new left-back, so it is not difficult to imagine that a spot would be open for Hato if he was to make the switch to Merseyside.
While Arsenal have been credited with interest, the Dutchman could struggle for playing time given the Gunners signed Riccardo Calafiori in the summer of 2024, as well as the fact Myles Lewis-Skelly has recently emerged from the academy.
As for Chelsea, though they will likely have the funds to match the Reds, pathway to the first team is by no means guaranteed considering Marc Cucurella has established himself as Enzo Maresca's primary option on the left of defence.
Competition from Real Madrid could prove problematic, but Real may have other priorities in the transfer window given they have frequently suffered injury setbacks in central defence.
Lewis Nolan
