Ajax push for new Jorrel Hato contract with Arsenal interested ahead of potential summer transfer battle

Ajax are working on tying down teen star Jorrel Hato to a new contract, as they brace themselves for summer interest from Arsenal and other top European clubs.

The defender will have just one year left on his contract at the end of the season and Ajax want to extend his deal.

The Dutch club are aware of Arsenal’s interest in Hato, as well as a number of European sides, and want to strengthen their hand ahead of any bids.

Ajax also want to reward Hato for breaking into the first team and they hope he could be persuaded to stay beyond the summer.

The 17-year-old is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in Europe and he has already captained Ajax.

He is capable of playing in the heart of defence or left-back, with his ability on the ball catching the eye of watching scouts.

Arsenal are expected to be in the market for a defender this summer and manager Mikel Arteta likes player who are versatile.

The Spaniard also prefers to have two players in every position. Arsenal currently have eight recognised defenders in their squad, but Cedric Soares’ contract expires in the summer.

The Gunners did business with Ajax last summer after striking a deal for Jurrien Timber that was worth around £38.5million.

In an interview with ELF Voetbal in October, Hato hinted he would like to follow in Timber’s footsteps, saying: “Unfortunately he was seriously injured in his first Premier League game for Arsenal, but he is still young and has a bright future ahead of him.

“In any case, the move to Arsenal was a wonderful one for him. It is also my dream to one day make such a transfer, but I realise that I still have a very long way to go.”