Jorrel Hato has spoken out about speculation linking him to a potential move to Liverpool after he was spotted at Anfield over the weekend.
The 18-year-old Ajax defender, regarded as one of the club’s top young prospects, has already drawn interest from Arsenal. However, his presence in the stands during Liverpool’s 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday fueled further rumors about a transfer.
Hato has now clarified that his visit to Anfield had nothing to do with transfer negotiations. Instead, he explained that he was invited by his fellow Dutchman and Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, insisting that no talks took place regarding a possible move.
“I am not leaving in the winter and want to finish the season at Ajax,” Hato stated during a press conference ahead of Ajax’s Europa League match against Galatasaray.
“I also read the reports and know that not everything is true. For my development, it is best that I stay at Ajax now. I was invited by Ryan Gravenberch. I didn’t speak to a director there. Liverpool played well and the atmosphere in the stadium was good, but that’s all I can say.”
While Hato remains committed to Ajax for the time being, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has suggested that the club will be active in the summer transfer window.
Speaking to Gary Lineker on BBC’s Football Focus, Slot acknowledged that Liverpool have been relatively quiet