Why Hato may end up as back up for Cucurella at Chelsea

Ajax defender Jorell Hato is one of the players on Chelsea target list this summer transfer window.

The Blues have made positive progress in the bid to sign him from Ajax, with recent report claiming they have made a breakthrough.

However, should Hato, who is a key player at Ajax sign for Chelsea, he might end up as a back up for Marc Cucurella at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are looking to sign Hato amid reports linking Cucurella with a potential move to the Saudi Pro League.

However, recent reports have also revealed that Chelsea have no plans to part ways with the Spaniard this current transfer window.

It was further reported that the Blues are preparing extended Cucurella’s contract to recognise his importance to their long-term plans.

Cucurella’s status as the Blues’ first-choice left-back means that Hato will be the Spaniard’s backup.

Hato’s versatility also gives him a chance  to stake a claim to play as one of the two centre-backs in Maresca’s starting lineup.

In other news, while Chelsea are keen on keep Cucurella at Stamford Bridge, they have parted ways with Joao Felix, who signed a permanent deal with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr.