Chelsea has now set the “special” defender as a summer target after internal talks, a report said.
Bruce plans to sign two defenders this summer
When the Premier League season comes to a conclusion, the Blues can still play everything, given Nuno’s side, Aston Villa and Manchester City breathe their necks.
Unless Newcastle United loses 2-0, Enzo Maresca’s side has performed well, although he admits he may need to attract more experienced players this summer.
Asked about the prospect of adding experience to his team this summer, just like Jurgen Klopp signed Virgil van Dijk and Alisson for Liverpool, Maresca said: “It’s certain that if you want to close the gap with clubs like this, you have to do things.”
So a range of centre-back goals have been identified before the summer and it is clear that the manager is seeking to integrate youth and experience.
Chelsea also strengthened their pursuit of Ajax’s Jorell Harto, with the defender now seen as a priority following internal discussions about its summer transfer plan, according to a TeamTalk report.
Feeling the fee of £37.8 million – £42 million may be enough to close the deal, so Hato’s move won’t undermine the bank, and he is now rapidly improving the Blues shortlist.
Someone like Liverpool, AC Milan and Arsenal could offer competition for the 19-year-old’s signature, but the West Londoner wants to act quickly to ensure they stay ahead.
Harto may be the “abnormal” signature of “Blues”
The report notes that Chelsea is looking to bring two centre-backs this summer, which is no surprise, given that the youngsters are now one of their favorite options since he broke into the team since he was a kid.
Football scout Ben Mattinson has been impressed by the teenager in the past and said on X: “Hato is an outstanding athlete of his age and a technical player who can continue these lines.”
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Chelsea hopes to sign “format” defender, Maresca believes it is “perfect”
The Blues turned their eyes to the centre-back, and Enzo Maresca was considered a keen admirer.
Not only that, the Rotterdam-born defender is a guaranteed ball, which may make him a perfect fit for Maresca, and he has ranked in the top 1% of his pass completion rates in the past year compared to other all-backs.
Indeed, Harto was able to play at left-back, mostly there during the 2024-25 campaign, but he also appeared at center guard throughout his career, and his versatility will bring additional benefits to Bruce.
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