Liverpool now favourites to sign £35m defender | OneFootball

Liverpool Move Closer to Joel Ordonez as Centre-Back Plans Take Shape

Liverpool’s long-term planning in central defence is beginning to crystallise, with Joel Ordonez emerging as a serious option as the club assesses how best to reinforce a key area of the squad. As the January transfer window approaches, groundwork carried out over several months has placed Liverpool in a strong position should they decide to accelerate discussions.

The Ecuador international has been monitored closely following his development in Belgium, according to BOLAVIP, where his performances have attracted interest from several major European clubs. Liverpool’s recruitment team have tracked Ordonez across both domestic and continental competition, viewing him as a player whose trajectory aligns with their evolving defensive profile.

Liverpool Defensive Planning Intensifies

Liverpool’s centre-back situation is under careful review as the club balances short-term competitiveness with long-term squad stability. While experienced options remain central to the current campaign, planning has already begun for the next phase of defensive evolution.

There is awareness inside the club that contract timelines and squad depth could soon require decisive action. That has sharpened the focus on younger defenders capable of stepping into a demanding environment while offering growth potential over several seasons. Joel Ordonez fits that bracket: physically imposing, tactically disciplined and already accustomed to high-pressure fixtures.

Liverpool’s interest is not new. Data-led scouting reports and live assessments have consistently highlighted Ordonez’s ability to read the game, defend aggressively in space and remain composed in possession. Those attributes are viewed as essential for a side that expects its defenders to operate on the halfway line as often as inside their own penalty area.

Joel Ordonez Profile and Development Path

Ordonez has established himself as a regular presence at club level in Belgium, featuring domestically and in European competition despite his relatively young age. His rise has been steady rather than sudden, which has appealed to Liverpool’s recruitment model.

Standing out for his aerial dominance and positional awareness, Ordonez is comfortable defending against varied attacking styles. He has also shown an aptitude for building play from the back, an area Liverpool prioritise when evaluating defenders. His passing range is measured rather than flashy, but effective in breaking lines and maintaining tempo.

International recognition with Ecuador has further underlined his progress. Exposure to different tactical systems and opponents has accelerated his learning curve, while reinforcing the sense that he is prepared for the demands of a top-five European league.

Transfer Landscape and Financial Considerations

Liverpool are aware that any move for Joel Ordonez would require a significant financial commitment. With the defender under a long-term contract, his current club are under no pressure to sell and are expected to hold firm on their valuation.

Estimates place a potential fee in the region of £35 million, a figure that reflects both Ordonez’s market value and his contractual status. For Liverpool, such an outlay would be viewed in the context of squad longevity rather than immediate impact alone.

Competition from other European sides has been noted, but Liverpool’s sustained interest and clarity of role could prove decisive. The club’s ability to outline a structured development pathway, combined with regular exposure to elite competition, remains a compelling proposition for emerging talents.

January Window Outlook at Anfield

While no final decision has been taken, the opening of the January window provides Liverpool with flexibility. Should internal assessments conclude that defensive reinforcement is required sooner rather than later, Joel Ordonez stands out as a viable and well-researched option.

Equally, Liverpool are prepared to remain patient if conditions do not align. The emphasis remains on value, suitability and long-term fit rather than reacting to market noise. That measured approach has defined recent recruitment and continues to guide decision-making behind the scenes.

What is clear is that Liverpool’s interest in Ordonez is genuine and informed. As defensive planning continues, his name is firmly on the shortlist, with developments expected to gather pace as the transfer window opens.