Marseille are closing in on a deal for Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordonez, with Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Aston Villa all kept informed of developments. The 21-year-old Ecuadorian international has been a consistent performer in the Belgian Pro League and is regarded among Europe’s top emerging defenders. Premier League interest has been strong for over a year, but Marseille’s progress means any rival move would need to be swift. Newcastle United had also shown interest but have turned their focus to Malick Thiaw.
Intermediaries have told Ordonez’s suitors that the player is keen on a switch to France. Liverpool’s defensive shortage has been well documented, with Arne Slot naming just one centre-back on the bench in the Community Shield. The Reds have yet to replace Jarell Quansah following his move to Bayer Leverkusen, and Jamie Carragher has publicly criticised their defending. With Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate carrying the main burden, fitness issues for Joe Gomez have increased the urgency for reinforcements.
Liverpool weigh late move for Joel Ordonez
Liverpool are also considering other centre-back options, including Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who is open to a future Anfield move. However, with his contract situation leaning towards a free transfer next summer, immediate alternatives may be necessary. Slot faces the challenge of managing van Dijk’s workload while competing on multiple fronts, something the current squad depth does not allow.
Tottenham’s defensive concerns remain
Tottenham endured major defensive problems last season, often struggling to pair senior centre-backs. Under new head coach Thomas Frank, the club is looking to strengthen the back line, with Ordonez among the monitored options. Frank had requested four signings before taking the job, and the Ecuadorian’s profile matches the club’s need for a reliable, young defender.
Marseille push ahead as rivals hesitate
While Premier League clubs assess their options, Marseille appear close to securing Ordonez. His blend of analytical strengths and standout performances on the pitch has impressed scouts across Europe. Unless Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, or Aston Villa act decisively, the defender is likely to join the Ligue 1 side before the transfer window closes.
Given the scarcity of affordable, high-quality centre-backs on the market, hesitation could see top-flight sides miss out on a player highly rated by multiple recruitment teams. For clubs seeking defensive security, the window for action is narrowing quickly.
