Liverpool are no longer keen on signing Newcastle United’s Sven Botman and will focus on Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez instead.
According to a report from Chronicle Live, Liverpool have decided against making a move for Sven Botman. While reinforcing their backline is a top priority for the Merseyside club in 2026, they have cooled interest in the Newcastle United centre-back and will instead go all out to bring Joel Ordonez to Anfield.
After making a name for himself at LOSC Lille, Botman joined Newcastle in the summer of 2022 in a deal worth £32 million. While he has been an important part of their team under Eddie Howe, the 25-year-old centre-back has had quite a few injury concerns.
Liverpool have been keeping tabs on the Dutchman for some time. The Reds want to add more quality to their backline as age seems to be catching up to Virgil van Dijk, and Ibrahima Konate’s long-term future is uncertain.
Arne Slot is desperate to have another top-level centre-back in his team. Reports earlier suggested they would go all out to sign Sven Botman. But they have decided against it. The Reds have stepped away from the race for his signature because of fitness concerns.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United are working hard to secure the Dutch defender’s long-term future with a new deal. While Botman is set to continue at St. James’ Park, the Merseyside club have identified an alternative that they would like to go after.
Liverpool to go after Joel Ordonez’s signature
Liverpool consider Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez a better fit for their system and project. Not only is the 21-year-old much younger, but he also has no significant injury concerns and has been doing wonders for the Belgian club since joining them in the summer of 2023.
While the Ecuadorian international prefers playing in the heart of the defence, he can even chip in as a right-back when needed. Ordonez has established himself as a mainstay at Club Brugge, and he is also widely regarded as one of the best young defenders.
Liverpool have already scouted him on multiple occasions, and they are ready to step up their interest in the £43 million-rated star. While the Reds are keen on securing his signature, they could face significant competition from other top clubs.
