The hierarchy at Dutch club Ajax has been left divided over Chelsea’s €40m (£35m) bid for their defender Jorrel Hato, according to reports.
Chelsea have already agreed personal terms with the 19-year-old Netherlands international – but they are yet to strike a deal with Ajax.
The Eredivisie side were originally hoping to receive around €55m to €60m (£47.5m to £52m) for Hato.
But there is now a ‘split’ at Ajax, De Telegraaf have reported, with some figures at the club feeling that they may be forced to accept a smaller fee.
Ajax are thought to be in a ‘bleak financial situation’ and certain members of the hierarchy believe they cannot risk Chelsea calling off the deal.
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They are also aware of Hato’s desire to join the west London side and know the club need the funds from his sale to strengthen their own squad.
Ajax, said to be in a ‘difficult situation’, are reported to be settling for a total package of between €43m-€45m (£37m-£39m) for Hato.
Hato asks to be left out of Ajax’s squad
Hato reportedly asked to be left out of Ajax’s squad to face Como 1907 in pre-season on Saturday.
The Dutch teenager has spent his entire senior career at Ajax to date, playing a total of 111 games for the club across all competitions.
But Hato, who also attracted interest from Arsenal in the summer transfer window, now appears destined for a move to Stamford Bridge.
‘Hato looks like a very attractive prospect’
Hato was crowned Eredivisie Talent of the Year last season and his expected arrival in west London is a significant boost for Chelsea.
‘Jorrel Hato looks like a very attractive prospect and fits the profile,’ Roberto Di Matteo told BetVictor, who offer the latest online casino games.
‘He’s physically very good, he’s comfortable on the ball, he can play left back, centre back.
‘I think even in the number six position in the midfield, he would make a lot of sense.’
Emmanuel Petit, meanwhile, told talkSPORTBET: ‘He would fit the vision for Chelsea when it comes to splashing money on young players and trying to build, like PSG and Barcelona.
‘Hato is playing for the Netherlands national team and can play in different positions, he would bring something more to Chelsea.’
