Ryan Gravenberch and Van Dijk react to Jorrel Hato’s announcement
Ryan Gravenberch and Virgil van Dijk were among the Liverpool teammates who reacted to Jorrel Hato’s latest announcement, further fuelling speculation over a possible move to Anfield.
The Reds are expected to target defensive reinforcements this summer, despite Van Dijk recently penning a new long-term deal.
Liverpool missed out on Dean Huijsen as the Spaniard opted on a move to Real Madrid instead, after they triggered his release clause.
Ajax’s Jorrel Hato has emerged as another major target. Football Insider reported that Liverpool hold serious interest in the Hato, who is seen as a long-term successor to Van Dijk.
The side have had a long-standing interest in the 19-year-old, as Football Insider revealed in March 2024 that Liverpool were closely monitoring a then 18-year-old Hato’s progress, with scouts sent to watch him.
Now, plenty of Liverpool players fuelled speculation after their reactions to Hato’s recent announcement due to his recent performances in the Netherlands.
| Season statistics | Jorrel Hato |
| Games played | 31 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Tackles won | 36 |
| Recoveries | 130 |
Liverpool stars react as Jorrel Hato wins Eredivisie talent award
Dutch international Hato confirmed via Instagram that he has been named Eredivisie Talent of the Year, following a standout season for Ajax.
He wrote: “Proud to receive the Eredivisie Talent of the Year award! Grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey. The work continues.”
Plenty of Liverpool players were quick to show support, with Cody Gakpo, Van Dijk and former Reds captain Jordan Henderson all liking the post. Gravenberch also reacted by commenting with heart emojis, further prompting further rumours about a potential move to Anfield.
Hato has enjoyed an excellent campaign, making 31 appearances for Ajax while operating at both centre-back and left-back. He scored twice and registered six assists, proving his attacking output from defence.
Liverpool shift attention to Milos Kerkez amid summer rebuild
With doubts surrounding the futures of Jarell Quansah and Ibrahima Konate—who is attracting interest from Real Madrid—Liverpool appear set to strengthen their back line.
While the focus has largely been on central defenders, left-back is another position being looked at as Football Insider revealed that Liverpool are closing in on a move for Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez.
Additionally, Liverpool fans are convinced that Kerkez is joining the club after his cryptic message questioning where he will play next season.
With questions lingering over Andy Robertson’s long-term form, Kerkez could represent a fresh option in that role moving forward. If Liverpool do follow through on their interest in Hato as well, it would signal a clear trend of investing in high-performing young talent that will undoubtedly bring excitement to Anfield.