Chelsea are eyeing up this Liverpool player ahead of the summer transfer windowplaceholder image
Chelsea are eyeing up this Liverpool player ahead of the summer transfer window | Getty Images
Liverpool are eager to bolster their defensive options with new signings in 2026
Liverpool have made signing a centre-back a priority for 2026 and have been linked with a number of potential suitors.
While Marc Guehi is still the main name doing the rounds on the Reds’ radar, they are also looking further afield.
As things stand, Arne Slot has just two fit natural centre-backs to choose between - Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. The latter is out of contract next summer and is no closer to signing a new deal to remain at Anfield.
Konate has reportedly rejected three new contract offers from Liverpool and will be free to leave the club as a free agent in 2026 if things continue as they are. Meanwhile, Van Dijk turns 35 next year and Liverpool are looking for someone to replace him long-term.
Liverpool path ‘cleared’ to sign centre-back target in 2026
According to Bolavip, Ordonez had been ‘very keen’ to sign for Chelsea and had even made it his plan for 2026. However, that opportunity has now been removed as the Blues have withdrawn from negotiations. This has ‘cleared the way’ for Liverpool to pounce and strike a deal for the 21-year-old.
Ordonez is under contract in Belgium until 2029 but reports have suggested he will be on the move next year. Back in September, TBR Football correspondent Graeme Bailey reported that his departure was expected to be finalised before the upcoming World Cup.
“Joel Ordonez is an outstanding young defender, and it is safe to assume that he will be leaving Club Brugge in 2026. He is going to the World Cup finals next summer, and I am told that he is almost certain to have gone before that point.”
How much will Liverpool target Joel Ordonez cost in 2026?
The Bolavip report claims that while Ordonez is valued at €28 million (£24m), it could cost in the region of €40 million (£35m) to facilitate his departure from Club Brugge.
If a club pays the reported £35 million asking price, Ordonez will become one of the most expensive transfers in the history of the club and even the Belgian league itself.
Liverpool spent a record-breaking amount of money over the summer on new signings. The bulk of their £446 million spending spree went on new attackers, with Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak costing more than £240 million combined.
The Reds were also meant to sign Guehi, which would have significantly bolstered their defensive options. However, a dramatic unfolding on Deadline Day saw Crystal Palace withdraw from the table as they were unable to find a suitable replacement for their captain.
Liverpool had agreed personal terms with Guehi and a £35 million bid was accepted, before the Eagles pulled the plug in the 11th hour.
Continue Reading