Report: Arsenal trying to sign wonderkid to replace Milan-bound Jakub Kiwior

The 19-year-old, recently crowned Eredivisie Young Player of the Season and already capped six times by the Netherlands, is no stranger to Arsenal scouts. In fact, discussions between the clubs and the player’s camp have been ongoing for nearly two years. Hato first emerged on Arsenal’s radar in early 2024, but opted to sign a new long-term deal at Ajax. Now, with the Gunners actively reshaping their defensive options, interest has been reignited.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have reached out to Ajax again this summer to explore Hato’s availability. The left-footed defender, who played the majority of last season at left-back, is also highly regarded as a left-sided centre-back — a profile that fits perfectly with Mikel Arteta’s tactical vision.

Should Hato arrive in North London, it’s expected he would effectively replace Jakub Kiwior, who could be on his way to AC Milan, along with Oleksandr Zinchenko in a double deal that could see Arsenal earn around £50million, as reported by Metro. Despite Riccardo Calafiori and Myles Lewis-Skelly offering competition on the left, the long-term plan could see Lewis-Skelly transition back into midfield, while Calafiori may be utilised more centrally.

Rated as having elite potential, Hato is seen as a key piece for the future — but Arsenal’s work wouldn’t stop there. The club are still actively pursuing a right-sided defender to complete the puzzle in defence.

As the Arsenal transfer news continues to unfold, Hato remains one to watch closely. Whether Ajax will be open to a deal this time remains to be seen, but Arsenal’s interest is real and longstanding.