Arsenal Eye £85m Sensation to Replace Zinchenko
Arsenal is gearing up for a busy summer transfer window, aiming to build on their impressive Premier League campaign that ultimately fell short of Manchester City’s dominance. While much of the transfer speculation has focused on strikers like Benjamin Sesko and Victor Osimhen, there is another crucial area that manager Mikel Arteta may need to address: the left-back position.
Recent reports suggest that Oleksandr Zinchenko could be on his way out of the Emirates. Although losing such a talented player is never ideal, Arsenal might have found the perfect replacement in Ajax’s rising star, Jorrel Hato.
Arsenal’s Interest in Jorrel Hato
According to The Athletic, Arsenal has sustained its interest in Ajax defender Jorrel Hato. Initially reported in January, Arsenal’s pursuit has not waned, even though the young defender has since signed a new deal with Ajax. While no official price has been mentioned recently, journalist Suleyman Öztürk previously estimated Hato’s value at around €100m (£85m).
Hato vs. Zinchenko: A Comparison
At just 18 years old, Hato is primarily a center-back with the versatility to excel at left-back. Despite his youth, his stats suggest he could be a formidable replacement for Zinchenko. While Zinchenko excels in offensive metrics like progressive passes, progressive carries, and non-penalty expected goals and assists, Hato shows significant defensive prowess.
Statistical Comparison (per 90 minutes, via FBref for the 2023/24 League campaign):
- Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists: Hato 0.07, Zinchenko 0.16
- Progressive Passes: Hato 4.74, Zinchenko 12.0
- Progressive Carries: Hato 1.19, Zinchenko 2.09
- Passing Accuracy: Hato 91.9%, Zinchenko 87.6%
- Tackles: Hato 2.04, Zinchenko 2.62
- Blocks: Hato 1.52, Zinchenko 0.94
- Interceptions: Hato 1.37, Zinchenko 1.05
- Clearances: Hato 2.55, Zinchenko 1.36
- Errors Leading to a Shot: Hato 0.00, Zinchenko 0.10
- Ball Recoveries: Hato 5.74, Zinchenko 5.45
- Aerial Duels Won: Hato 2.31, Zinchenko 1.41
Hato’s defensive stats are impressive, surpassing Zinchenko in blocks, interceptions, clearances, and aerial duels, while also maintaining higher passing accuracy and fewer errors leading to shots.
A Strategic Move for Arteta
Mikel Arteta has shown a willingness to deploy more defensively minded left-backs, as seen with Jakub Kiwior and Takehiro Tomiyasu. Hato’s defensive skills could fit seamlessly into this strategy, providing solidity at the back while still offering room for development offensively.
While Hato’s transfer would likely require a significant investment, his potential makes him a worthwhile prospect. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has praised Hato’s bright future, indicating that the youngster could become a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense for years to come.
In conclusion, acquiring Jorrel Hato could be a strategic masterstroke for Arsenal, ensuring both immediate defensive stability and long-term growth.