Liverpool’s Scouting Eyes on Joel Ordonez: Brighton Links and January Planning

Liverpool’s January window could see defensive reinforcements take priority, with one name quietly surfacing amid the discussions on The Transfer Show from Anfield Index Pro. Speaking to Trev Downey, insider Dave Davis confirmed that Liverpool have been monitoring Joel Ordonez, the young Ecuadorian centre-back currently impressing at Club Brugge.

Defensive Search Intensifies Amid Uncertainty

While much of the recent debate has focused on Liverpool’s midfield frailties, Davis made clear that the club are actively exploring defensive targets for January. “From our info,” he explained, “Liverpool are looking at defensive options and what they can get in January. They know it’ll be a tough market, and it’s complicated by the fact it’s World Cup year.”

That backdrop hasn’t stopped Liverpool’s recruitment team from scouting widely. Among the names mentioned by Davis was the 20-year-old Ecuadorian: “Liverpool have had scouts at Brugge for Joel Ordonez, the Ecuadorian youngster. So he’s another one they’ve looked at.”

Why Ordonez Fits Liverpool’s Recruitment Profile

Liverpool’s long-term transfer strategy has often targeted high-ceiling prospects with strong physical and technical profiles, and Ordonez appears to fit that bill. The defender’s rise in Belgium has caught attention across Europe, particularly for his composure on the ball and progressive passing — two traits that align with the demands of Arne Slot’s tactical system.

Davis highlighted that the club’s defensive rebuild is not only about depth but also future-proofing key positions: “Liverpool absolutely like Niko Schlotterbeck, but Bayern Munich also like him, and he’s not going to move in January. So they’re looking at other names like Van Hecke at Brighton and Ordonez at Brugge.”

That multi-target strategy reflects Liverpool’s pragmatic approach under sporting director Richard Hughes, who, as Davis put it, “knows January will be a nightmare market because everyone knows Liverpool need to spend.”

Brighton Links and the South American Connection

The Ecuadorian connection is no coincidence. Davis also mentioned Brighton’s defensive prospect Jan Paul van Hecke as another name on the club’s list, reinforcing the idea that Liverpool’s analysts are paying close attention to the Premier League’s most efficient talent model.

“Liverpool have had a serious look at Van Hecke at Brighton,” Davis noted, before adding that “Ordonez is another one they’ve looked at.” It’s a sign that the recruitment team could be seeking a similar mould — technically sound defenders capable of transitioning quickly and comfortable in high lines.

Given Brighton’s success in South American talents scouting, particularly with players like Moisés Caicedo and Pervis Estupiñán, Liverpool’s interest in Ordonez may signal a willingness to explore that same recruitment route.

January Window and Long-Term Planning

While a deal in the winter seems unlikely, Davis emphasised that Liverpool’s groundwork for summer 2026 and beyond is already being laid. “They are having a serious look right now,” he said. “It’s a tough market, but Liverpool are looking at what can be done.”

That measured tone aligns with FSG’s broader transfer philosophy — calculated investment rather than panic buys. However, Davis made clear that a sense of urgency has returned to the recruitment discussion: “If there’s any doubt about Champions League qualification, Liverpool will look because you can’t risk it not to buy one defender if you can get them in January.”

A Glimpse of the Future

Joel Ordonez may not be a household name yet, but his emergence in Liverpool’s scouting notes reflects the club’s shifting focus. After a summer dominated by attacking signings, the need for defensive reinforcements has become clear.

For now, Ordonez represents what Liverpool used to do best — identify value early, develop potential, and integrate talent before rivals act. As Davis put it succinctly, “Liverpool are seriously looking at defensive options in January,” and if their scouts’ reports from Brugge prove accurate, Joel Ordonez could soon be part of that solution.