Meulensteen backs Man Utd move for struggling Chelsea defender Hato

Rene Meulensteen, the former Manchester United assistant manager, believes his old club should make a move for Chelsea's Jorrel Hato when the transfer window reopens this summer.

The Dutch international arrived at Stamford Bridge from Ajax last summer for £35.5m as one of European football's most exciting defensive prospects. At just 17, Hato had already become a fixture in Ajax's starting lineup and was handed the vice-captaincy in 2023, before claiming the Eredivisie Talent of the Year award this season.

Yet his Chelsea adventure has proven a disappointment. The 19-year-old, capable of operating at centre-back or left-back, has managed just three Premier League starts under both Enzo Maresca and successor Liam Rosenior. Across all competitions, he's featured 21 times for the Blues, though only 12 of those have been from the off.

Speaking to BetGoat, Meulensteen expressed sympathy for Hato's predicament. "It's disappointing because he was absolutely outstanding at Ajax," the former coach explained. "He was incredibly young and made captain – that tells you everything about the manager's faith in his character and leadership."

Meulensteen highlighted Chelsea's tendency to chase talent without necessarily ensuring it fits their system. "They want to collect the best players everywhere," he noted. "But that doesn't mean they work with how the team plays. He's been one who hasn't settled."

The 61-year-old stressed that young players thrive through regular football, not financial security. "A big contract and money in the bank don't help your development," he said. "You need clarity on the manager's vision and what role you'll play."

What makes Hato particularly intriguing, according to Meulensteen, is his versatility. Beyond centre-back and left-back, he can operate as a number six, and possesses excellent technical ability. "It wouldn't surprise me if he's exploring loan options or looking elsewhere," Meulensteen suggested.

"If I were any Premier League club – Manchester United included – and he became available, I'd be seriously interested. He's still very young with plenty of potential waiting to be unlocked."