"People will speculate" – Eredivisie breakout star opens up on future amidst transfer interest from Real Madrid and Arsenal

Real Madrid and Arsenal target Jorrel Hato has asserted that he is not looking forward to securing a move away from Ajax in the near future.

Hato, 18, has emerged as one of the most promising defenders in Europe since his senior debut for Ajax in January 2023. He has scored three goals and laid out as many assists in 68 appearances across all competitions, including 61 starts, for his boyhood club so far.

During a recent interview with The Athletic, Hato was asked to share his thoughts on the reported interest from European giants like Real Madrid and Arsenal. He replied (h/t Tribal Football):

"I know the players who entered the first team when they were 17 or 18 and played in an Ajax team that dominated the league and went far in Europe. It's a different situation for me."

Hato, who is adept at playing at both centre-back and left-back, said:

"I have more responsibility than these players. So, it's different and it's hard, but I'm doing well. I want to achieve more, achieve great things with Ajax: league titles, play in Europe, be at the highest level in the Champions League. It is not rare that people will speculate or think that I will go to another club."

Hato, who is a Netherlands international, has a deal until 2028 at Ajax.

Real Madrid keeping close tabs on Arsenal defender William Saliba, reveals journalist

In his column for Caught Offside, transfer insider Charles Watts claimed that Real Madrid are closely monitoring France international William Saliba's situation at Arsenal. He wrote:

"William Saliba's name is constantly being mentioned in the same breath as Real Madrid. That's been the case for the past couple of years and it's going to continue to be the case going forward. And that's no real surprise is it? Because let's face it, he's the best young centre-back in the world. So of course, he's going to be linked with Real Madrid, PSG and every other top side in Europe."

Saliba, 23, has cemented himself as one of the best centre-backs in the world after helping the Gunners achieve back-to-back runners-up finishes in the Premier League. He also guided Mikel Arteta's side to the UEFA Champions League quarter-final stage last season.

Since arriving from Saint-Etienne for £27 million in the summer of 2019, Saliba has registered five goals and two assists in 86 games across competitions for Arsenal.