- Hato been linked with Arsenal
- Defender intent on staying in Amsterdam
- Zinchenko and Tierney linked away from Gunners
WHAT HAPPENED?
Hato has been the subject of rife transfer speculation in recent months, with both the Gunners and Manchester United linked with the bright prospect. The 18-year-old impressed in a sub-par Ajax team this season and was one of few standout performers for the club. His importance to the side was epitomised when he was given the captain’s armband against Almere City in November and became the youngest ever player to captain the club. The interest in Hato comes as little surprise, but the player has snuffed out the hopes of those aiming to secure his signature.
WHAT HATO SAID
In an interview with the club’s social team about his future, Hato said: “I’ll just play for Ajax next season.
“I haven’t finished learning here yet. And I want to win prizes with Ajax. That was my dream when I came here.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Hato’s decision to stay at Ajax throws a spanner in the Gunners’ transfer plans for the summer window. The young defender had emerged as a key target to provide competition at left back to his compatriot Jurrien Timber. Three Arsenal left-sided defenders – Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kieran Tierney and Jakub Kiwior – have all been linked away from the club as Mikel Arteta looks to reinforce an area that became an Achilles’ heel in his side last term.
WHAT NEXT FOR HATO AND ARSENAL?
The Gunners might not have ended their pursuit of Hato and may still test Ajax and his resolve with a transfer bid this window. However, if Hato is intent on staying in the Dutch capital then Arteta will have to reassess his options – although Timber’s return from an ACL injury will act as a new signing next campaign.
