Liverpool are on the verge of finalising a major defensive signing, with a deal for Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordonez expected to be wrapped up in a matter of days. The move comes after Chelsea pulled out of the race to sign the Ecuadorian international.
Defensive Reinforcements a Priority for Slot
The Reds are prepared to spend up to £43 million to secure the 21-year-old's services. It is understood the initial fee will be around £35 million, with performance-related add-ons making up the remainder of the potential total. Manager Arne Slot has identified strengthening his back line as a critical objective for the January window, which opens on Thursday morning.
Liverpool's need for a new central defender was heightened after their £35m move for Marc Guehi collapsed at the last minute in the summer. Furthermore, summer signing Giovanni Leoni, a £26m acquisition from Parma, suffered a season-ending ACL injury on his debut in September. Compounding the issue, Ibrahima Konate is now free to discuss a pre-contract with overseas clubs as his current deal expires at the end of the season.
Ordonez's Profile and Liverpool's Defensive Woes
Joel Ordonez began his career at Independiente del Valle before moving to Belgium, where he has made 105 appearances for Club Brugge. This season alone, he has featured 15 times in the Jupiler Pro League for a side sitting second with an impressive defensive record.
His potential arrival addresses a clear problem area for Liverpool. The reigning champions have conceded 26 goals in the Premier League so far this season, leaving them fourth and 13 points behind leaders Arsenal. The usual defensive partnership of Konate and Virgil van Dijk has not functioned as expected, while injuries have also plagued full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez.
Other Potential Moves on the Horizon
With crucial fixtures against Leeds United, Fulham, and Arsenal looming, the Liverpool hierarchy is assessing all options. The club could yet revisit a move for Marc Guehi, who enters the final six months of his Crystal Palace contract in January, potentially available at a reduced fee.
Further attacking reinforcements are also being considered, with Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi mentioned as a target. Additionally, Brighton's Jan Paul van Hecke has been suggested as another defensive option for the Reds as they seek to solidify their back line for the second half of the campaign.
