FOOTBALL
By Eishna Rawat
Posted on June 16, 2026 6:00 pm | Updated on June 16, 2026 2:13 pm Tottenham lead the chase for Joel Ordonez, but Liverpool remain serious contenders.
Liverpool is one of England’s most iconic football clubs, competing in the Premier League and European competitions like the UEFA Champions League. Known for its attacking style, legendary players, and passionate fanbase, Liverpool has a rich history of domestic league… Read More about LIVERPOOL
The summer window is barely open. But as per the latest transfer news, Liverpool is already circling one of the most talked-about young defenders in Europe. Joel Ordonez, the 22-year-old Club Brugge centre-back, is firmly on the radar of several top Premier League clubs. The battle for his signature is shaping up to be one of the defining stories of this summer.
Joel Ordonez back on Liverpool’s shortlist
As reported by Yahoo Sports, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Chelsea are all keen on Joel Ordonez. The Ecuador international is widely seen as ready for a big step up. The report noted that a long list of English clubs have scouted him on multiple occasions over the past year. That points to real and sustained intent, not just casual window-shopping.
The context at Anfield makes the chase easy to read. Ibrahima Konate will be leaving on a free transfer and is very likely to join Real Madrid, and Virgil van Dijk is well into his thirties. Jeremy Jacquet has arrived from Rennes, which is a solid start, but one signing does not fix a backline. Liverpool needs more, and Joel Ordonez fits the profile. He is tough, physical, and Champions League-proven, with his best years still ahead.
There is also a personal angle here. Earlier this year, the defender told Gazet van Antwerpen that he grew up supporting the Reds. He has long wanted to play in England. That kind of fit between player and club can make talks much smoother when the time comes.
Tottenham leads the race, but Liverpool is still serious
Liverpool are not yet leading the chase. As reported by CaughtOffside, Tottenham have edged ahead, with Spurs now seen as the frontrunners. Chelsea, Newcastle, and Juventus are also in the mix. That gives Club Brugge a great deal of power at the table.
As reported by CaughtOffside, Brighton are holding firm on Jan Paul van Hecke’s asking price. That could push the Spurs harder towards Joel Ordonez as a more reachable option. It would only heat the race further. Club Brugge appears willing to sell, but they want around €45 million. That is a clear and firm valuation, and one that several clubs can match.
Joel Ordonez for Club Brugge in 2025/26, as per FOTMOB:
Competitions Matches Goals Tackles Interceptions
First Division A 33 3 37 26
UCL 10 1 15 7
He joined Brugge from Independiente del Valle for under €4 million just four years ago, as per Transfermarkt. That €45 million price tag shows just how far he has come. He played in all ten of Brugge’s Champions League games last season. His passing accuracy was close to 93%, as per FBref data. He is now one of the most reliable young defenders in the game.
Joel Ordonez fits what Iraola needs at Anfield
As reported by TEAMtalk, Joel Ordonez is firmly back on Liverpool’s radar. The Premier League club is actively looking at centre-back options, and he is among those getting serious attention. People inside the club believe he has exactly what it takes to thrive at Anfield.
Andoni Iraola’s arrival as head coach adds a key layer to this pursuit. His system needs defenders who press high, step up boldly, and move the ball forward fast. Joel Ordonez checks all those boxes. He is front-footed, strong, and sharp in how he reads the game. He is exactly the type of player you build a defence around.
Liverpool remains an appealing destination for top talent. They offer Champions League football, a clear direction, and a manager whose style suits Ordonez well. Liverpool still has a genuine chance of signing him if they act quickly.
Read more: Bradley Barcola wants PSG exit as Arsenal, Liverpool circle
Read Next: Wataru Endo pulls out of World Cup, ends Japan career
Also Read: Cody Gakpo to Tottenham? Spurs ready £60m bid for Liverpool star
Follow the latest updates from Premier League, La Liga and Champions League, or explore more Football stories, Football Teams & All Football Competitions . Follow more updates on LIVERPOOL. You can also check Latest Sports News or visit Six Sports for more Football updates.
Eishna Rawat
Mentioned in this Article