Arsenal have allegedly received a boost in their efforts to secure a deal for Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.
Although the Gunners possess one of the best defensive records in the Premier League, there has been widespread speculation regarding several of their backup members.
A decision has reportedly already been made to allow Kieran Tierney to leave the Emirates Stadium, while Jakub Kiwior continues to be linked with a return to Serie A.
While it is unlikely that both players will exit North London in January, club officials will realistically have to start contemplating long-term alternatives for each player.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal have seemingly been given encouragement regarding the status of one of their long-term targets.
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Hato to leave Ajax in 2025?
Mikel Arteta is said to have had Hato on his radar prior to eventually pushing to wrap up a deal for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.
Nevertheless, with Hato still only 18 years of age, there are obvious positives from signing the Netherlands international in the future.
As per the aforementioned outlet, Hato's long-term contract at Ajax may prove irrelevant if they receive a substantial offer for his signature.
A source is quoted as saying: "I'm afraid that next summer, we will lose him."
The report adds that Hato's representatives insisted on him remaining at Ajax for at least another season when interest emerged earlier in the year. However, that may seemingly change 12 months on.
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Where would Arteta see Hato in the pecking order?
When Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes and one of Calafiori or Jurrien Timber are fit, no-one else is getting a look in when it comes to staking a claim for this Arsenal defence.
That will be the natural concern of Hato who has already racked up 88 appearances for Ajax in all competitions, contributing four goals and seven assists.
As well as his age, the obvious plus point from Arteta's perspective is Hato's versatility. The teenager is equally capable of playing at left-back and centre-back.
Although Hato may want to experience Premier League football at some point in his career, he only has to look at Kiwior's lack of progress across two years at Arsenal while playing second fiddle to other players.
Darren Plant
