Arsenal’s efforts to sign Ajax’s defender Jorrel Hato have been impeded by post-Brexit immigration regulations.

The Gunners, along with other English clubs, face a delay in signing the promising Dutch player due to his age, highlighting the complexities of the post-Brexit transfer landscape.

Arsenal‘s pursuit of Ajax‘s promising defender Jorrel Hato has hit a snag due to post-Brexit immigration rules. Despite significant interest in the young Dutch player, the Gunners, along with other English clubs, are currently unable to sign him as he is only 17 years old.

These regulations mean that Arsenal must wait until he turns 18 in March, effectively restricting them to a potential summer move.

Hato, who has already captained Ajax twice this season and made 40 appearances, is a versatile player primarily occupying the central defender role but also capable of playing left-back.

His impressive performances for Ajax have not gone unnoticed, with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta keen to strengthen his defence.

However, the post-Brexit rules have complicated matters, as players under 18 from EU countries can no longer move to English clubs directly.

Arsenal‘s interest in Hato, a player who fits their style and could adapt well due to the similarities between Arsenal and Ajax‘s playstyles, was first highlighted by insiders on Twitter and later confirmed by The Athletic.

Despite Hato’s talent and his desire to follow in the footsteps of former Ajax player Jurrien Timber, Arsenal might also be looking for a more experienced player to strengthen their squad in the second half of the season.

Meanwhile, Ajax, aware of the growing interest in Hato, are attempting to secure his future at the club. Ajax‘s technical director, Kelvin de Lang, has expressed optimism about extending Hato’s contract, which is currently set to expire in 2025.

De Lang acknowledged the delay in negotiations but remains hopeful of a positive outcome.