Liverpool has been working on a generational change in its midfielders during this summer’s transfer window. Behind the scenes, they also made a move for a left-handed center back, and reached out to 20-year-old defender Levi Colwill, who was on loan at Brighton last season, but ended up signing a long-term contract with Chelsea.
The names of other candidates were also in the media, but as a result, time passed without any center backs being captured. Still, strengthening the final line is a pressing issue, and a young left-handed center back is a high priority.
According to Football Transfers, Liverpool is working to secure a center back with a long-term view, and has turned its attention to 17-year-old defender Jorrel Hato of Ajax, and is watching the player’s development closely.
At 1.82 meters, he is not a big player by any means, but he has the speed and technique essential for a modern center back, and can also pass up front and make long feeds. He can also defend aggressively, and his defense against opponents shows great potential.
He gradually started getting first-team action last season, making 11 appearances for the Eredivisie. Toward the end of the season, he became a regular and has started every game this season. He is attracting interest from all over Europe as the next best thing to Matthijs de Ligt.
However, at 17 years old, he still lacks experience. He will not be an immediate starter, but he would be ideal for Anfield, where he could develop as a fourth or fifth choice and get playing time, especially in cup competitions.
Yet, he is still on track to develop at Ajax. If he gets the chance to play in the Champions League and defend against some of the world’s best strikers in the future, he could become one of Europe’s leading center backs even as a teenager.
Will Liverpool really start to make a serious move for a 17-year-old center back?