Liverpool are gearing up for an important summer transfer window which is already one of big change with Andoni Iraola set to replace Arne Slot.
The Dutch manager was sacked at the end of his second season in charge, but leaves with the appreciation of supporters after he delivered a Premier League title in his second season.
Iraola, who worked closely with Richard Hughes in the latter’s time as technical director at Bournemouth, is set to oversee his first transfer window in charge, although it has been reported that Iraola prefers to be hands-off when it comes to making new signings.
With Ibrahima Konate set to join Real Madrid, Liverpool have increased need for a new centre-back. Bear in mind, they are yet to replace Jarell Quansah after he joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2025.
? | @BILD: Liverpool have decided not to trigger their 2027 buyback clause for Jarell Quansah this summer, which was set at £67m.
They can resign the defender for around £50m next summer if they wish to do so. pic.twitter.com/NF58OLXQTe
— Anfield Edition | æ (@AnfieldEdition) May 27, 2026
Liverpool recruitment team rate Ordonez highly
TEAMtalk journalist Graeme Bailey reports that Liverpool have been scouting Ordonez for a while and have come to the conclusion that he would make a fine addition to the Reds’ team.
Bailey explained: “Liverpool’s recruitment team have been carrying out extensive work on a number of defensive targets and Ordonez is among the names receiving serious consideration.
“The Ecuador international has established himself as one of Europe’s most promising young centre-backs during three impressive seasons with Club Brugge and is widely expected to move on this summer.’
“We understand Brugge would be willing to sanction a sale for a fee approaching £40million, a valuation that has only increased interest in the defender.
“Liverpool’s scouting department have followed Ordonez closely and there is a strong belief internally that he possesses the attributes required to thrive at Anfield.
“His athleticism, composure in possession and ability to defend aggressively in open spaces are all qualities that have impressed decision-makers at the club.”
Whoever joins Liverpool will need to be prepared to play in a very high line under Iraola. The Spaniard prefers high-octane, front-footed, and proactive defending, which will demand a lot of whoever plays at centre-back alongside Virgil van Dijk.
£40m for Ordonez would be a bargain in this market given his age and ability to defend in 1v1 scenarios.