Liverpool’s Defensive Mission: Why Marc Guéhi and Joel Ordóñez Are Sports-Priority No.1

By Trendy News — November 17, 2025

Liverpool are reportedly pushing hard for centre-back reinforcements, with Marc Guéhi and Joel Ordóñez high on the list.

Amid concerns over defensive depth and durability, Liverpool FC are turning their attention to the centre-back market in earnest. Two names dominate the scene: Marc Guéhi of Crystal Palace — who remains a clear target despite a failed summer move — and emerging South American talent Joel Ordóñez of Club Brugge. The urgency to reinforce is driven by injuries, expiring contracts and a desire to stay competitive in multiple fronts. ([turn0search3])

Why defence has become Liverpool’s urgent priority

Liverpool’s defensive unit has shown cracks this season. With centre-back Ibrahima Konaté’s future uncertain and promising youngster Giovanni Leoni sidelined for the season with an ACL injury, the number of experienced, reliable headliners is shrinking. Guardian reporting notes the £35 m bid for Guéhi earlier collapsed due to Palace’s inability to find a replacement. ([turn0news13])

Moreover, Liverpool’s summer exits and ageing core—led by Virgil van Dijk—suggest that reinvestment isn’t optional; it’s essential.

Guéhi vs. Ordóñez: contrasting profiles

• Marc Guéhi (25): A mature Premier League centre-half with England caps, leadership experience as Palace captain and proven resilience. His age and experience mean he can slot immediately into a top-four contender. ([turn0search3])
• Joel Ordóñez (21): A rising star from South America who ticks the “long-term investment” box. Scouts at Liverpool describe him as “complete” for his age, with excellent passing and movement metrics in the Champions League. ([turn0search8])

Choosing between them: Guéhi offers readiness and minimal adaptation; Ordóñez offers upside and lower initial cost—both have appeal depending on Liverpool’s timeline and budget.

Transfer strategy: January window blue-print

Liverpool’s transfer strategy appears dual-track: attempt to resurrect the Guéhi deal either in January or next summer—and simultaneously advance negotiations for Ordóñez. A recent report states the Reds are willing to offer £35 m+ for a “complete” centre-back alternative. ([turn0search8])

Implementation hinges on several factors:

• Contract situations: Guéhi has just one year left at Palace—adding urgency and leverage.
• Budget and amortisation: Liverpool must balance spending with Premier League and UEFA financial rules.
• Squad turnover: If Konaté departs or Van Dijk’s physical decline accelerates, speed becomes more important than long-term planning.

Wider implications for Liverpool

A defensive signing of this nature would be more than a tactical fix — it signals Liverpool’s intent to remain elite. It also speaks volumes about incoming management’s ambition and ability to execute in the market. If the club secures both players, it could shift the narrative of the next-gen Anfield core.

What supporters should look out for

• Official bid announcements or leaked valuations for Guéhi before the January window.
• Negotiation breakthroughs for Ordóñez, especially given his age and South American club’s stance.
• Quotes from Liverpool management indicating urgency or prioritisation of the defensive market.
• Movements of other centre-backs at Liverpool—sales or contracts expiring that may trigger signings.

Bottom line: For Liverpool, the centre-back recruitment challenge is the most important single move of the next six months. Whether they choose the ready-made Guéhi or the long-term bet in Ordóñez, what they do — and how swiftly they act — could define their next chapter. This isn’t standard transfer activity. It’s a statement of priority, direction and ambition.

This article is an original analysis based on public reporting and transfer intelligence as of November 17, 2025. Transfer fees, negotiations and club strategies may evolve.