Liverpool eye rising Ecuadorian defender Ordonez as Guehi alternative
Liverpool are reportedly monitoring Ecuadorian prodigy Deinner Ordonez as they continue to assess defensive reinforcements ahead of future transfer windows. With Marc Guehi remaining a high-priority target for the Anfield recruitment team, attention has also turned to emerging talents from South America who could strengthen the club’s long-term options at centre-back.
Ordonez catching Liverpool’s attention
According to recent updates from Mail Sport’s Liverpool Confidential Q&A, the Premier League champions have been tracking 16-year-old Deinner Ordonez, a centre-back currently developing at Independiente del Valle. The Ecuadorian club, renowned for producing elite players such as Moises Caicedo and Piero Hincapie, continues to serve as a rich source of young talent.
It’s understood that Liverpool’s scouting department, led by Richard Hughes and supported by the club’s youth recruitment network, has highlighted Ordonez as one of the standout prospects in South America. Scouts have reportedly described him as the best player of his age group on the continent — an extraordinary claim for a teenager who has yet to make his senior debut.
While Liverpool’s immediate focus remains on bolstering first-team depth, particularly with the pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi still active, identifying future stars has always been a cornerstone of Fenway Sports Group’s long-term strategy.
Guehi remains central to January discussions
Liverpool’s interest in Guehi has been well-documented following an unsuccessful approach during the summer window. The England international, who has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable central defenders, continues to be admired by the Anfield hierarchy.
With Arne Slot keen to maintain balance and stability within his defensive unit, Guehi’s profile — a composed yet commanding figure capable of operating comfortably in a high line — fits neatly into Liverpool’s tactical framework. The expectation is that discussions around his potential move could reignite when the January transfer market opens.
However, while Guehi represents a ready-made option for the present, Ordonez embodies the future. Liverpool’s data-led recruitment model thrives on identifying high-ceiling prospects early, and the Ecuadorian teenager ticks all the analytical boxes.
Ordonez praised for technical maturity
Football Talent Scout’s Jacek Kulig has profiled Ordonez as a “complete, dominant and elegant centre-back,” lauding his blend of composure, physical strength, and tactical intelligence. Reports describe a player mature beyond his years, combining bravery in challenges with the ability to carry the ball confidently out of defence — traits reminiscent of Europe’s elite defenders.
Although a move to Europe cannot occur until Ordonez turns 18 in October 2027, Liverpool’s interest aligns with their philosophy of early identification. By securing a first-mover advantage, the club could position themselves ahead of potential competition from other top sides across the continent.
Future planning and long-term defensive strategy
With Virgil van Dijk’s contract expiring in 2026 and the Dutchman set to turn 36 by that point, Liverpool’s leadership knows the importance of forward planning. Alongside Guehi and Giovanni Leoni, who impressed before suffering an unfortunate ACL injury, Ordonez could represent the next phase of defensive evolution at Anfield.
As the club balances its pursuit of immediate reinforcements with strategic youth investment, names like Ordonez will continue to appear on internal scouting lists. The Ecuadorian may still be years away from senior football in Europe, but his rise is being tracked with growing interest — not just by Liverpool, but by several major European clubs aware of his potential.
For now, Guehi remains the clear priority for January, yet the groundwork being laid for players like Ordonez reflects a broader commitment to ensuring Liverpool’s back line remains one of the most formidable in world football for years to come.
