Transfer news: Liverpool aims to secure the services of the 18-year-old talent that Jordan Henderson has praised as ‘fantastic.’…

Liverpool expresses interest in 18-year-old talent praised by Jordan Henderson.

Liverpool is interested in acquiring the 18-year-old prodigy whom Jordan Henderson described as ‘fantastic.’

The 18-year-old wonderkid, whom Jordan Henderson has called ‘fantastic,’ is a target for Liverpool.

Liverpool is reportedly considering a transfer for Ajax’s promising young player, Jorrel Hato, who has been recognized as a potential future star.

At just 18 years old, Hato made his senior debut for Ajax in January 2023 at the age of 16 and has since accumulated 81 appearances.

He has established himself as a vital member of the team, participating in 20 matches this season, scoring three goals, and providing four assists, which has certainly drawn attention.

Who is Jorrel Hato?

Hato, a product of Sparta Rotterdam’s youth system, joined the Ajax academy and became the third youngest player to debut in the Eredivisie for Ajax at 16 years and 335 days, following in the footsteps of Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch and Clarence Seedorf.

Current Ajax teammate Jordan Henderson has praised Hato’s overall talent, having played alongside him for the past 11 months.

“It’s remarkable how young he is, yet he displays such maturity both on and off the pitch,” Henderson stated on the Ajax website.

“He is a very mature individual who works hard. A fantastic player with a promising future ahead.”

Primarily playing as a left-back, Hato showcased his versatility by spending the previous season as a center-back, demonstrating his capability in multiple positions where Liverpool may seek to bolster their squad in the coming years.

According to Rousing the Kop, he is considered a top target for the Reds’ defensive reinforcements.

With a valuation of £26 million by Transfermarkt, his price tag could increase, especially since his contract runs until 2028.

A more affordable alternative to Goncalo Inacio?

Goncalo Inacio, a left-sided defender who has excelled in Portugal under Ruben Amorim, has also been linked with Liverpool.

He has been a subject of interest in recent transfer windows, and a significant move for him seems likely in the near future.

When analyzing the two defenders on FBref, Inacio and Hato exhibit the closest statistical similarities, suggesting that Liverpool may be interested in acquiring both players.

However, securing Inacio would require a payment of £52 million to activate his release clause.

Rational assessment might indicate that Hato could be the more affordable option; however, Ajax may demand a higher price due to his age and contractual circumstances.

A comparison of Hato’s performances as a center-back last season with Inacio’s this season reveals intriguing insights, as the data from Data MB shows minimal differences between them.

Notably, Hato recorded more defensive actions, achieved a higher duel win percentage, and demonstrated a superior success rate for forward passes. The statistics for aerial duels and passing were closely matched.

Overall, Hato appears to be the more versatile choice, especially considering his impressive performance at just 18 years old, indicating significant potential for future stardom.