Virgil van Dijk replacement 'spotted' at Anfield as Liverpool tipped to complete transfer
Virgil van Dijk replacement 'spotted' at Anfield as Liverpool tipped to complete transfer
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Talk of Liverpool signing Jorrel Hato from Ajax has intensified following claims that the defender was seen at Anfield during Saturday's win over Ipswich Town. The centre-half, 18, has plenty of admirers across Europe after breaking into the Ajax team early. And Hato's extensive list of suitors is understood to include Liverpool, who could well be in the market for a new central defender in the summer.
There has been plenty of speculation over the future of club captain, Virgil van Dijk, with the Dutchman out of contract at the end of the season. And Hato, given his age and profile, would arguably be the perfect long-term successor. It was suggested over the weekend that Hato was taking in the 4-1 win over Ipswich Town with Ajax not playing, though that has not been confirmed.
But regardless of whether or not Hato was at Anfield on Saturday afternoon, links putting the young defender on Liverpool's radar is nothing new. Hato has already clocked up over 90 appearances for Ajax's senior team after progressing through the academy ranks. He is also capable of playing at left-back and is said to have already been the subject of enquiries from Chelsea and Real Madrid.
Any move for Hato would likely take place in the summer with Liverpool well stocked on centre-backs. But long-term succession planning would be a smart move. Join the debate! Would Hato be a good signing for Liverpool? Let us know here. While much has been made of Van Dijk's contract situation, his defensive partner, Ibrahima Konate, has now entered the final 18 months of his deal.
