Reports say that Club Brugge is willing to let Joel Ordonez go in the next transfer window in January. This is a significant boost for Liverpool and Chelsea in their pursuit of him. The 21-year-old defender has attracted the attention of two Premier League teams after a string of standout performances in Belgium and the Champions League.
The Ecuadorian player is said to be open to moving to England, and the Belgian champions are willing to make a deal if they get the right price. Both English clubs are preparing to sign the center-back, seen as one of the best young players in Europe, as the winter transfer window approaches.
Chelsea have been keeping an eye on Ordonez for a long time, going back to when he played for Independiente del Valle. The Blues want to add more quality to their defense, which has struggled to stay consistent this season. It is said that Enzo Maresca’s team is looking for a long-term solution on defense, and Ordonez fits the mold of the high-potential player the club is after.
The report also says that Moises Caicedo has helped in the search by giving the Chelsea management a good recommendation for his fellow countryman. The two players know each other well from playing for Ecuador’s national team. The chance to play with Caicedo again at Stamford Bridge could be a big draw for the young defender.
Liverpool interest in the Chelsea target is strong
Liverpool have also been keeping a close eye on Ordonez for the past year and has decided that he is a key target to strengthen their defense. Arne Slot’s team is looking for defensive help, especially since it’s unclear whether other targets will be available.
It seems that Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who Liverpool have been interested in, may not be available in January. Because of this, the Reds are ready to speed up their interest in the South American. Liverpool has had a good start to the season under Slot, but recent reports have raised concerns about the depth of the defense and the workload of Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk.
Ordonez has the speed to recover and the ability to play the ball that Liverpool needs for its high line, making him a good choice for the Anfield recruitment team. With both Premier League teams interested and Club Brugge willing to talk, a formal offer from either side is likely to come in the next few weeks.