Liverpool could back away from the race for Joel Ordonez, which could boost Aston Villa and Newcastle United’s chances with the Ecuadorian defender.

According to Caught Offside, Liverpool could cool their interest in Joel Odonez despite seeking top defensive reinforcements in January. The club Brugge star is attracting widespread interest from some of the top clubs, including Aston Villa and Newcastle United, with the Ecuadorian expected to leave the Belgian side in January.

Joel Ordonez was widely expected to leave Club Brugge back in the summer, with a host of top teams, including Chelsea, vying for his signature. The Belgian side are reportedly demanding at least €50 million for the Ecuadorian defender, which may have put off some of his suitors back in the summer.

However, ahead of January, the defender is once again tipped to leave Club Brugge for a new challenge, with the South American defensive powerhouse set to receive multiple offers. However, there are only a handful of clubs likely to meet with his asking price, which certainly points towards a Premier League switch in the winter window.

Liverpool held an interest in Ordonez, as there are doubts creeping in about their prospects of signing Marc Guehi. The Ecuadorian was seen as an alternative to the England international; however, they are yet to be established as serious contenders.

The report points towards the possibility of Liverpool cooling their interest in Ordonez, with some factors likely to justify their decision. For starters, they already spent well on Giovanni Leoni in the summer, and despite the Italian’s injury, he is considered a long-term prospect for the future and is seen similarly to Ordonez. Secondly, they would like a left-footer of sorts, which does rule out the Ecuadorian.

Aston Villa and Newcastle United are ahead in the Joel Ordonez chase

Aston Villa are one of the clubs keeping close tabs on Ordonez, with recent reports pointing to the possibility of scouting missions on the defender. Unai Emery might prioritise a new centre-back in January, and the South American defensive powerhouse certainly fits into his profile requirements.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United are also looking at him closely as they might seek a long-term replacement for the experienced Fabian Schar. The Magpies and Villa are now seen as prime contenders for the Ecuadorian, with a January approach within the realms of possibilities.