Arsenal reportedly remain keen on signing Ajax Amsterdam star Jorrel Hato this summer, as per the transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners are said to be willing to reinforce their squad in this window to make the next step and finally beat Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
It has been reported that Mikel Arteta wants a new striker and midfielder but it appears the North London club are pushing forward to reinforce their left side of the defence first.
With Jakub Kiwior’s future currently hanging in the balance at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta reportedly wants a new left-footed defender to create competition for Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Bologna star Riccardo Calafiori has heavily been linked with a move and the player has already agreed to join after receiving a proposal from the North London club.
Hato to Arsenal
Arsenal will now negotiate with Rossoblu to get the deal done with the Italian club reportedly wanting around £42m. However, Chelsea are also keen on signing Calafiori so if the Gunners eventually fail to purchase the 22-year-old then they already have alternatives on their wish-list.
Now, writing on the Daily Briefing, Romano has reported that Arsenal appreciate Hato very much and they could opt to make a swoop for him.
However, the journalist says that Ajax don’t want to let their star man leave as they want to keep hold of him for at least another year. Therefore, it seems signing Calafiori would be easier for Arteta’s side.
Hato is valued at around £26m by Transfermarkt and still has four years left in his current contract, therefore, Ajax are in no rush to sell him this summer.
The Gunners’ boss likes to deploy centre-backs – who are extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet – in the fullback positions. So, Arsenal have been exploring options like Hato and Calafiori.
The Ajax star is a talented player and could be a shrewd signing with a view to the long-term future. However, he still is very young so he would need time to settle down in the Premier League should he joins the club.
But, Calafiori is a more established player and has proven his worth in a top league like Serie A, therefore, the former AS Roma man would be a better acquisition for Arsenal over Hato if they purchase him.
