HITC understands Manchester United have been doing their homework on Arsenal target Jorrel Hato.
United are in the market for a couple of defenders, if not more with a left-back as well as two central defenders being considered.
Despite the club’s new footballing department being established under new minority owners INEOS – the scouting ranks have remained intact and strong throughout, allowing them to continue their work.
Manchester United have watched Ajax’s Jorrel Hato
HITC is told that United’s scouts, as well as central defenders, have been doing their work on left-sided options.
Now, we can reveal that Hato is a player that United admire and have been aware of for a long time.
United are no strangers to signing players from Ajax since Erik Ten Hag’s arrival having taken the likes of Lisandro Martinez and Anthony to Old Trafford.
18-year-old Hato is widely regarded as one of the best defensive prospects in Europe and was recently awarded one of the most prestigious honours that Ajax can be bestow on a player as he was recently named the winner of the Marco van Basten award – which the club’s coaches give to the club’s biggest talent.
And despite signing a new deal with Ajax only months ago, it is believed he could depart the Amsterdam giants following their failure to qualify for Europe.
Whilst, United have shown an interest – including watching him in Ajax’s final game of the season against Almere. However, HITC understands that Arsenal are very much in pole position for Hato – who is understood to be keen on making the move to the Emirates and are ready to make a bid to land him.
Aresenal tried to land Hato in January, before he signed his new deal in March – but they are set to make a fresh bid this summer – but it remains to be seen if United will join them.
HITC understands Hato is one of a number of options being assessed by United.
HITC has previously revealed that Nice’s Marvin Bard has been watched, whilst we understand that Bradley Locko, Rayat Ait-Nouri and Juan Miranda have also been checked on in recent months.
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