Chelsea Join Liverpool in the Race to Sign 20-year-old Defender – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool and Chelsea Battle for Ecuadorian Prospect Joel Ordonez

Liverpool and Chelsea are preparing to lock horns once again, this time over the services of 20-year-old Ecuadorian centre-back Joel Ordonez. A rising star at Club Brugge, Ordonez has been a standout performer in Belgium, capturing the attention of Europe’s elite, including two Premier League giants.

According to Belgian media outlet Het Laatste Nieuws (HLN), both Liverpool and Chelsea have been closely monitoring Ordonez, with January touted as a potential window for his move. Signed from Independiente del Valle in 2022, Ordonez has quickly established himself as a key player for Club Brugge, making his presence felt in the Jupiler Pro League.

Rising Star at Club Brugge

Since joining Club Brugge, Ordonez has become a linchpin in Nicky Hayen’s side. His consistent performances and composure have marked him as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe. Speaking to HLN, Ordonez expressed his openness to a Premier League move, saying, “The Premier League, I would like that.” However, he remained focused on his current club, adding, “I’m focused on Club [Brugge], with whom I want to win another title.”

Photo: IMAGO

Ordonez’s manager, Nicky Hayen, also commented on the player’s mindset amid growing transfer speculation. Hayen told HLN: “That is ultimately what you want as a player. What makes me happy is that Joel always does his job despite the interest. When that transfer will happen, you have no control over that. It could be in the winter window, but it could also be after this season, which we would prefer.”

This measured approach from both player and manager reflects a mutual understanding of Ordonez’s potential while acknowledging the realities of modern football.

Liverpool’s Defensive Strategy

Liverpool’s interest in Ordonez aligns with their focus on rejuvenating their defensive line. Under Arne Slot, Liverpool have leaned heavily on Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, but with Joel Matip aging and Joe Gomez struggling with injuries, the need for fresh legs is apparent. Ordonez, with his versatility and maturity beyond his years, could fit seamlessly into Liverpool’s system.

The Reds have a history of developing young talent into world-class players, a factor that could appeal to Ordonez as he contemplates his next move. With Jürgen Klopp’s departure in 2024, Arne Slot’s dynamic management style could also play a role in convincing the Ecuadorian to choose Anfield over Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s Defensive Evolution

Chelsea, meanwhile, are undergoing their own rebuild under Enzo Maresca. The Blues’ defensive struggles have been well-documented, and the addition of a player like Ordonez would inject much-needed stability. Chelsea’s appeal lies in their ambitious project and significant investment in young players, as seen with their recent signings.

However, Chelsea’s larger squad could be a double-edged sword. For Ordonez, the promise of regular game time might be more feasible at Liverpool, where competition for a starting role may not be as fierce.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, Joel Ordonez represents an exciting prospect who could address key areas in the squad. His ability to play out from the back, combined with his defensive discipline, makes him an ideal candidate for the Premier League. Fans would undoubtedly be intrigued by the prospect of pairing him alongside Virgil van Dijk, creating a mentor-student dynamic that could accelerate Ordonez’s development.

However, questions remain about whether Liverpool can secure his signature in January. With Chelsea also in the race, Liverpool may need to act decisively to avoid losing another promising talent to a rival. Financial negotiations will be crucial, as Club Brugge are unlikely to part with Ordonez cheaply.

For Liverpool supporters, the potential arrival of Ordonez signals the club’s intent to future-proof their defence. While the January window often proves challenging, capturing a player of Ordonez’s calibre could be a defining moment in their mid-season recruitment strategy.