11 months ago
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Arsenal transfer target Jorrel Hato is set to sign a contract extension at Ajax, according to reports in the Netherlands.
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The Gunners are considering making a move for the 17-year-old wonderkid as they eye up defensive reinforcements.
Arsenal are currently a little light on options at the back with Jurrien Timber still recovering from a long-term knee injury and Takehiro Tomiyasu not due to return until after the Asian Cup.
Although Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his defensive options, he does not want to make a short-term signing that could potentially disrupt the balance of the squad.
That has seen Arsenal turn their attention to Ajax teenager Hato, who could provide cover and competition in the short-term as well as having a long-term future at the club.
The youngster is very highly rated after a breakout campaign in Amsterdam and has been a rare bright spark in an otherwise disappointing season.
The only issue for Arsenal is that due to post-Brexit immigration rules, they face complications over a permanent move until he turns 18 in March.
Arsenal’s hopes of landing Hato have now taken a fresh blow with Dutch outlet De Telegraaf reporting that Ajax are nearing an agreement in principle over a new contract for the youngster, which he will sign once his next birthday has passed.
Hato’s current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2025 and it is thought that he will commit himself to Ajax for three more years.
That comes as bad news to Arsenal, who are already restricted by profitability and sustainability rules (PSR).
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