AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - MAY 18: Jorrel Hato of Ajax during the Dutch Eredivisie match between Ajax v Fc Twente at the Johan Cruijff Arena on May 18, 2025 in Amsterdam Netherlands (Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Newcastle United are expected to be in the market for a centre-back again this summer, and the Eredivisie could be home to exactly what they are looking for.
The final day of the season will be a big one for the Magpies this weekend, with one game against Everton standing in the way of confirming a place in the Champions League next season.
Taking all three points from their clash with David Moyes’ side at St James’ Park will guarantee them a spot rubbing shoulders with Europe’s most elite clubs in the prestigious competition later this year.
While a strong summer of recruitment is expected regardless, qualification for the Champions League would elevate their opportunity to attract the very best talent to boost their squad.
Sporting director Paul Mitchell will be in the driving seat for the recruitment strategy, and supporters will be excited to see what is in store for the next chapter in their huge ambitions of success.
According to iNews journalist Mark Douglas, Newcastle United are one of the many Premier League clubs interested in signing Ajax centre-back Jorrel Hato this summer.
Douglas claims that the North East giants are prepared to spend big on their investment of a right-sided centre-back but also want to pursue a young talent that they can develop too.
It is further noted by the transfer expert that Mitchell will be looking for low-cost youth prospects, though Ajax are expected to command a fee north of £30m for Hato.
Should Newcastle sign Jorrel Hato?
There is no doubt that finding the successor for Fabian Schar will be a priority for Newcastle in the coming months, and Hato has all the attributes to be a warmly welcomed addition.
Newcastle’s Swiss defender recently extended his stay on Tyneside for another 12 months, however, is not expected to be the long-term solution in the centre-back partnership at 33 years old.
Over 31 Eredivisie appearances this season, Hato – hailed a “magnificent talent” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig – has tallied up 11 clean sheets, a pass completion rate of 90% and successfully won the majority of his duels (52%).
Not only that, like Schar, the Netherlands native is an influential presence in attacking opportunities too with two goals, six assists and six big chances created in the Dutch league so far this season.
Newcastle have been linked with several defenders over the last few months with AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw named and Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi remaining a top target for the Geordies.
With that being said, Hato is an exciting young prospect with plenty of eyes on his performances, so if Newcastle are genuinely interested in snapping up his services, they would need to make an attractive offer.
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