Liverpool are reportedly stepping up their search for a new centre-back ahead of the January transfer window, as the club looks to address growing concerns over defensive stability and recent injury setbacks.
Earlier links to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi have cooled, with reports now suggesting that Club Brugge defender Joel Ordoñez has emerged as a leading target for the Reds.
Defensive Concerns Mounting
Liverpool’s injury list continues to grow, particularly in defence. Giovanni Leoni, brought in to add squad depth, has been ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering an ACL injury. This leaves only three senior centre-backs available for selection.
To complicate matters further, there are doubts over Ibrahima Konaté’s future, with contract talks reportedly stalling. The uncertainty has prompted Liverpool to assess potential replacements or strong competition for the Frenchman.
The team’s defensive inconsistency this season has also become a talking point, with lapses at the back affecting results and underlining the need for reinforcements.
Potential Transfer Targets
Joel Ordoñez (Club Brugge) – According to Yardbarker, the Ecuadorian centre-back is now a top target. Liverpool are reportedly ready to bid more than €40 million (£35 million) to bring him to Anfield.
Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace) – Despite long-term interest, This Is Anfield reports that Liverpool are unwilling to meet Palace’s high valuation, particularly with just six months left on Guehi’s contract. Other Premier League clubs are also monitoring the situation, potentially sparking a bidding battle.
Other Options – Additional players said to be on Liverpool’s radar include Gonçalo Inácio, Sven Botman, William Pacho, Zeno Debast, and Usman Diomande.
What Lies Ahead
With defensive injuries piling up and uncertainty surrounding key players, Liverpool are expected to be active in the January transfer market. Strengthening the back line could prove decisive in sustaining their domestic and European ambitions for the remainder of the season
