Jorrel Hato reacts as Liverpool seal deal amid Anfield transfer talk
Jorrel Hato offered his instant reaction after Liverpool announced that Virgil van Dijk has signed a new contract.
The 33-year-old has agreed terms on a £400,000-a-week two-year extension to end the speculation surrounding his future at Anfield.
The Dutchman could have left on a free transfer at the end of the season but he will now remain on Merseyside until 2027 at the very least, which is a major boost for Arne Slot.
Hato reacts as Van Dijk signs new contract at Liverpool
Liverpool have been linked with a Hato move and he has been spotted at Anfield in the past, which only ramped up the rumour mill.
Van Dijk took to Instagram to announce that he was staying on Merseyside (17 April) with the caption reading that "it was only Liverpool."
Hato reacted by liking the post from his international teammate, which will likely only serve to fuel more links to the L4 outfit.
Liverpool could pair Hato with Van Dijk
The Reds are looking for a new left-back in the summer transfer window, as links to Bournemouth star Milos Kerkez refuse to go away.
Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas are not at the required level anymore and the Anfield outfit are searching for replacements ahead of a busy summer for sporting director Richard Hughes
| Liverpool's Dutch contingent | Role |
| Virgil van Dijk | Player |
| Cody Gakpo | Player |
| Ryan Gravenberch | Player |
| Arne Slot | Manager |
| John Heitinga | Coach |
However, Hato is another option and his connection with the Reds skipper, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch from the Dutch national team may be a factor in the decision on who to bring in to reinforce the squad.
It would help that he can play at centre-back too, so could eventually be a successor for his compatriot at the heart of defence when he eventually departs.
Gravenberch invited the Ajax defender to watch the 4-1 win over Ipswich Town (25 January) and the 19-year-old was coy when asked whether a move to Merseyside was on the cards in the future just days later.
It may just be a case of Hato congratulating his fellow national team star, however, there may be a deeper meaning and speculation will only increase after the youngster's latest actions.