Hato is an attractive prospect for top European clubs.
Image credit: @ThatAnfieldBuzz
Speculation surrounding Liverpool’s defensive lineup has intensified amid reports that Ajax defender Jorrel Hato was spotted at Anfield during the Reds’ 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town.
📸 | Jorrel Hato was spotted at Anfield yesterday during our match against Ipswich.
— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) January 26, 2025
Via @YagzLfc pic.twitter.com/nKJ2zQdHE7
With club captain Virgil van Dijk’s contract still unsigned and uncertainty surrounding his future, fans and analysts alike are wondering if Liverpool is preparing for life after their defensive talisman.
Who is Jorrel Hato?
At just 18 years old, Hato has already made over 90 appearances for Ajax’s senior team after rising through their youth system.
The highly-rated Dutch defender is versatile, capable of playing both as a center-back and left-back, making him an attractive prospect for top European clubs.
Liverpool is reportedly among his suitors, along with Chelsea and Real Madrid, as teams look to bolster their defensive ranks.
Is Liverpool Planning for Life After Van Dijk?
Van Dijk, whose contract expires at the end of the season, has remained tight-lipped about his future, stating after the Ipswich game:
There will be a day when I reflect on everything that’s happened to me at Liverpool. Hopefully, there are still good things to come.
With his defensive partner, Ibrahima Konaté, also entering the final 18 months of his contract, Liverpool could be considering long-term replacements.
While no official confirmation has surfaced regarding Hato’s presence at Anfield, the growing links between the Dutch defender and the Reds suggest a potential summer transfer move.
Jorrel Hato was absolutely star-struck when he last met Virgil 🤩pic.twitter.com/3srVDlvsGd
— Watch LFC (@Watch_LFC) January 26, 2025
What Would Hato Bring to Liverpool?
Hato’s defensive awareness, composure on the ball, and ability to play multiple roles in the backline make him a strong candidate for Liverpool’s future plans.
Although Liverpool currently has depth at center-back, securing a young, high-potential defender like Hato could be a strategic move to ensure continuity at the heart of their defense.
While Van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all face contract uncertainties, Liverpool’s interest in defensive reinforcements signals preparation for the future.
Whether or not Hato ends up at Anfield remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Liverpool is already looking beyond the present to maintain their dominance at the back.