Real Madrid Confidencial Chelsea signs new center-back, Florentino's reaction says it all: 'We...'
Jorrel Hato is close to joining Chelsea for 40 million euros, a target for Madrid in the winter, and Ajax was asking for 60 million euros
Chelsea is about to finalize the signing of Jorrel Hato, Dutch center-back from Ajax. The young defender, just 19 years old, has been on the radar of several top European clubs for some time.
The London club already has an agreement with the player. Only the details with Ajax remain to be finalized. The deal will be around €40 million.
But at Real Madrid, it hasn't gone over well. Florentino Pérez, according to Defensa Central, made a comment that shows some discontent: "We had to pay more money to sign him."
Ajax asked for more from Real Madrid
When the white club showed interest in Hato in the winter, Ajax was firm. They didn't want to negotiate for less than €60 million (60 millones de euros). This amount is much higher than what is now being discussed with Chelsea.
At Madrid, they interpret this difference as a clear penalty for being the ones asking. This is not a new practice, but it is bothersome.
"They always ask us for more," they say from the Valdebebas offices. With English clubs, there seems to be more flexibility.
Meanwhile, Ajax has now lowered the price. Chelsea has taken advantage of the moment. Hato was eager to make the leap and the Dutch club needs to sell.
Hato, a gem that gets away
Jorrel Hato has been one of the great sensations of the Eredivisie: left-footed, fast, with good ball distribution. Real Madrid really liked his profile. But the price was an insurmountable barrier.
With a contract until 2025, Ajax knew it was the right time to cash in. It will, but not with Real Madrid.
Chelsea will get the player for about €40-45 million (40-45 millones de euros). This is a considerable amount, but far from the €60 million that was demanded from the white club (60 millones de euros).
Florentino, upset by the difference, has already moved on. Real Madrid is still exploring other options to strengthen its defense. It isn't willing to enter into bidding wars.
Hato will move to London. At Valdebebas, they'll watch from afar. With the feeling that, once again, the price was different just for wearing the Real Madrid badge.
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