Chelsea new boy Jorrel Hato explains why he joined Blues despite secret Liverpool visit

Jorrel Hato has claimed that "Chelsea is the best place for me" after completing his move to the Blues despite the likes of Liverpool also being keen on the young defender.

Hato had risen through the ranks at Ajax and had a number of clubs in Europe eyeing his services, but he has chosen to make the move to Stamford Bridge, signing a deal in the capital until 2032.

Levi Colwill and Trevoh Chalobah were Chelsea's two central defenders when they claimed the Club World Cup, but they will now face competition from the 19-year-old, who has set the club back £37million. But Hato is convinced he's found the best environment for him.

He told the club's website: "I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here. I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that so I’m very happy."

Talk of a move to Liverpool ramped up after the defender was seen at Anfield during Liverpool's win over Ipswich in January. Hato's list of suitors was understood to include Liverpool, who have considered adding a new central defender this summer.

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However his weekend visit on Merseyside was due to his relationship with fellow Dutchman Ryan Gravenberch, who invited Hato as a guest to watch the Reds. The pair have been playing together with the Netherlands, with Hato making his senior debut at the age of 17 and picking up six caps. He also captained the Dutch side at the U21 Euros this summer.

Liverpool have sold Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen this summer with Ibrahima Konate entering the final 12 months of his deal. He is thought to be keen on a switch to Real Madrid, which could leave the Reds light in defence. They have also been heavily linked with Crystal Palace skipper Marc Guehi.

Chelsea's latest arrival takes their summer spend to the £250m mark. Hato is the first major defensive arrival with Enzo Maresca instead choosing to bolster his frontline. Joao Pedro signed from Brighton for £55m and played a key role in the Blues winning the Club World Cup.

Liam Delap has also joined from Ipswich, leading to questions over the future of Nicolas Jackson. Jamie Gittens has returned to his homeland after impressing with Borussia Dortmund for £48.5m. RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons is thought to be high on Chelsea's shortlist.

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