Liverpool’s defence may already have a few new faces this season, but there could still be room for another addition.
And one player who could potentially help Andoni Iraola’s squad in more ways than one is Joel Ordonez.
The Ecuadorian is primarily a centre-back, but his versatility could make him particularly interesting for Liverpool.
Ordonez could offer Iraola another option
By trade, Ordonez is a centre-back.
That’s almost certainly where Iraola would use him most often.
However, the 22-year-old has also been deployed as a number six on several occasions.
And that could be extremely valuable for Liverpool.
The Reds have already shown concerns in midfield, particularly when it comes to defensive protection and their vulnerability on the counter-attack.
Having a player who can operate at centre-back but also step into midfield could give Iraola another tactical option.
Ordonez or Jacquet at number six?
Liverpool already have another intriguing option in Jeremy Jacquet.
Jacquet has impressed with his composure and passing ability since arriving at Anfield, while Ordonez has similar qualities.
Neither player would necessarily be a conventional defensive midfielder.
But perhaps that isn’t what Iraola is looking for.
Liverpool’s system relies heavily on players understanding their responsibilities collectively.
A centre-back who can step into midfield could therefore offer something completely different.
Imagine Liverpool needing more defensive security late in a game.
Iraola could potentially bring Ordonez into midfield without having to sacrifice another player.
That’s the sort of tactical flexibility that can become hugely valuable over a long season.
£25.6m could be a bargain
There is another reason why Ordonez is worth looking at.
He’s reportedly available for around £25.6m.
In today’s transfer market, that feels relatively modest for a 22-year-old defender who already has significant experience.
Liverpool have previously been linked with Ordonez, so this isn’t a completely new name appearing from nowhere.
The interest has been there before.
But if the opportunity is now available at a reasonable price, perhaps Liverpool should revisit it.
Champions League experience
One of the most attractive aspects of Ordonez’s profile is his experience at European level.
He’s already played in the Champions League despite being only 22.
That’s important.
Liverpool are going to need players capable of handling enormous pressure this season.
The Reds are competing in the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups, meaning there will be very little opportunity for anyone to switch off.
Ordonez already understands what European football feels like.
He could solve more than one problem
That’s ultimately what makes this potential signing so interesting.
Liverpool don’t necessarily need another centre-back simply for the sake of adding another centre-back.
But a player who can potentially cover centre-back and defensive midfield is a different proposition.
Especially when the squad is already looking stretched.
Liverpool have already lost Curtis Jones.
The midfield still doesn’t look particularly balanced.
And the defence needs enough depth to cope with injuries, suspensions and a demanding fixture schedule.
Ordonez could potentially help in both areas.
Liverpool should at least explore it
There are obviously questions.
He wouldn’t help Liverpool’s homegrown quota.
And moving between centre-back and midfield at Premier League level is very different from doing it elsewhere.
But at around £25.6m, Liverpool wouldn’t necessarily be taking an enormous gamble.
They would be signing a young defender with Champions League experience who has already demonstrated versatility.
That’s an attractive profile.
My verdict
Liverpool spent huge money last summer.
But sometimes the most useful signing isn’t necessarily the most expensive one.
Ordonez could give Iraola another centre-back, another option in midfield and another player capable of progressing the ball from deep.
At just 22, there would also be plenty of time for him to develop.
Liverpool have been linked with Joel Ordonez before.
Perhaps now is the time to revisit that interest.
Because if the Ecuadorian really is available for around £25.6m, this could be one deal Liverpool would regret not exploring.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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