ARSENAL are plotting a move for Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, according to reports.
The 17-year-old wonderkid has already captained the Dutch giants twice this season.
Mikel Arteta is understood to be keen to bolster his defensive options in the transfer market.
He remains without summer signing Jurrien Timber, who is expected to be out until at least April with a knee injury.
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Zinchenko is a current injury doubt and Takehiro Tomiyasu is now on international duty at the Asian Cup.
According to the Telegraph, Hato has now been identified as a potential target by the Gunners.
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The teenager is predominantly used in central defence but can also play at left-back, with his versatility appealing to Arsenal.
However, the report adds that a summer move for Hato is being considered instead of a January transfer.
Hato has been a standout performer for Ajax this season in an underwhelming campaign for the 36-time Dutch champions.
He has already made 40 first-team appearance before his 18th birthday as well as wearing the captain’s armband on multiple occasions this term.
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Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman also handed him his senior international debut back in November.
Elsewhere, Arsenal continue to be strongly linked with Brentford’s Ivan Toney.
The forward is seen as the preferred target in Arteta’s search for a new striker.
Brentford, and manager Thomas Frank, remain determined to keep hold of their man this month.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
