Liverpool are reportedly exploring a move for Club Brugge’s rising star Joel Ordóñez, according to new reports from Ecuador. The 21-year-old Ecuadorian centre-back, valued at around €40 million, has emerged as a serious target for the Reds as they look to bolster their defensive ranks.
As the 2025–26 season progresses, defensive instability has become a growing concern at Anfield. Liverpool have conceded 14 goals in nine Premier League games, exposing weaknesses both in open play and from set pieces. The situation has been compounded by Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending ACL injury, which has left Arne Slot short on defensive options. What was initially seen as a long-term summer priority may now require urgent action in the January transfer window.
Bola VIP reports that Liverpool’s scouting department has identified Ordóñez as a prime candidate to strengthen the backline. Since joining Club Brugge from Independiente del Valle in 2022 for around €4 million, the young defender has developed into one of Europe’s most promising talents. Standing at 1.88 meters, he has already surpassed 90 senior appearances and recently extended his contract with Brugge until 2029. Ordóñez has also broken into the Ecuador national team, further boosting his reputation.
Ecuadorian journalist José Cedeño Mendoza revealed that Brugge would demand at least €40 million for the defender, while Liverpool are reportedly prepared to offer him a salary exceeding €3 million annually.
“Joel Ordóñez attracted several European clubs in the last window. He was close to joining Olympique de Marseille, but the move fell through. Now, despite his contract renewal, Liverpool are determined to sign him,” Mendoza reported.
“For the transfer to happen, Liverpool would likely need to bid above €40 million and offer a competitive salary package. Although Ordóñez is one of Brugge’s top earners, the Premier League opportunity could prove too tempting to turn down.”
Why Liverpool Are Interested
Ordóñez’s numbers help explain Liverpool’s interest. Data from FBref places him among the most efficient young centre-backs in Europe’s emerging leagues when it comes to passing and build-up play:
Passing Metric (per 90) Stat Percentile
Pass Completion % 91.3% 94th
Passes Attempted 65.6 81st
Progressive Passes 4.47 85th
npxG + xAG 0.12 91st
His ability to play out from the back, combined with his physical strength and composure under pressure, aligns perfectly with Arne Slot’s football philosophy. As Liverpool continue to evolve under their new manager, Ordóñez could be the ideal addition to solidify the club’s defence and set a foundation for the future
