Arsenal remain interested in Ajax defender Jorrel Hato ahead of the summer transfer window, although any potential move will hinge on the future of Jakub Kiwior. Jakub Kiwior, a 25-year-old Pole, has been in fine form in defensive midfield for Mikel Arteta's side of late, replacing Gabriel Magalhaes, who was ruled out for the rest of the season after a hamstring injury and surgery 10 days ago. Meanwhile, Hato, a talented Netherlands international, has been on the Gunners' radar since late 2023 and has been on the rise in Amsterdam, where he is considered a key player in Francesco Farioli's explosive side.
In this context, Hato, who has played at left-back all season, is equally comfortable as a centre-back. His age, potential and multi-dimensionality make him attractive to Arteta, who has expressed his delight at Hato's abilities and admiration for Jurgen Klopp, a colleague who has mastered the various defensive roles at the Emirates Stadium. Meanwhile, Kieran Tierney is set to return to Celtic on a free transfer at the end of the season, while the futures of Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kiwior remain uncertain due to a lack of game time, although it is not certain that the latter will definitely leave.
Despite the high interest in the Kiwior, who has been linked with a number of Italian clubs and Marseille, the prospect of Arsenal strengthening their defensive options is dependent on the expected departures. In this context, in addition to Hato, Liverpool are also closely following Bournemouth's Dutchman Milos Kerkez, who is considered a major target at Anfield. The Athletic first reported that both Arsenal and Liverpool have shown interest in Cherries star Dean Huijsen, while talks with his representatives are ongoing.
However, it seems unlikely that the Gunners will activate the Spaniard's £50m release clause, as he would rank behind Gabriel and William Saliba in the squad's priority list. Competition for Huijsen's signature is also fierce, with his father Donny recently in London meeting with several clubs interested in signing him.
