Joel Ordonez is a big target for Liverpool ahead of the summer, with Arne Slot’s side ready to pay big to secure the Ecuadorian.
According to Sports Boom, Liverpool are reportedly ready to pay £40 million for the signing of Joel Ordonez in the summer. The Reds are aiming to beat fellow rivals Chelsea in the race for the Ecuadorian defender, as Arne Slot eyes a revamp of their backline in the close season.
Liverpool have developed a soft underbelly when it comes to their defence, as they have suffered majorly without solidity at the back. The Reds were seen as title favourites when the new campaign began, but they are currently sitting outside the top five, largely because they haven’t managed to shut teams out for extended periods.
Arne Slot seemingly feels the need to revamp their backline with new centre-backs, while new full-backs could also be targeted. They have begun their work early, as seen with their agreement for Jeremy Jacquet to join in the summer from Rennes, and now they are keen on wrapping up other defensive targets.
Liverpool were widely expected to sign a new centre-back in January, as they saw Marc Guehi join Manchester City. They were linked with Joel Ordonez, the 21-year-old South American defender, who has been on their radar for some time now.
Liverpool ruled out a January move for the Ecuadorian, but now they are ready to re-enter the race and have reportedly indicated a willingness to pay around £40 million for the defender. The young South American star has been grabbing attention with his performances for Club Brugge this season, and is widely expected to leave if a large bid arrives.
Are Liverpool the favourites for Joel Ordonez?
Before Liverpool entered the frame for Ordonez, Chelsea had been on his trail for some time, and they did briefly consider making a move in January. While they abandoned a move for the 21-year-old South American defender in the winter window, they could reignite their interest ahead of the summer.
While playing in Belgium may not be a hallmark of a great defender when it comes to assessing the target, Ordonez has more than impressed in the Champions League. Hence, the young Ecuadorian centre-back could be on the move in the summer, as the Premier League looks like the most likely destination.
