'I can tell you': Romano clarifies Liverpool's stance on January deal for Joel Ordonez after exciting claims

Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has stepped in to clarify Liverpool's position regarding reports of an imminent January signing for promising Ecuadorian defender Joel Ordonez, debunking sensational claims circulating in South American media.

The speculation ignited from an Ecuadorian outlet, Diario Espresso, which cited sources claiming Liverpool were "one signature away" from securing the young centre-back in a major deal. The report described Ordonez as poised for "the biggest step of his career" with a "millionaire contract" and full backing from the Reds' hierarchy, following a "direct tug of war" with rivals. It asserted personal terms were effectively agreed, positioning the move as a strategic South American acquisition set for completion imminently—potentially in the January transfer window.

However, Romano, known for his "Here we go" confirmations, swiftly addressed the hype on social media and in updates. "I can tell you," he stated, emphasizing that while Liverpool hold interest in Ordonez—a highly rated talent from LDU Quito—no January deal is on the table. Instead, any potential agreement would align with a summer 2026 timeline, mirroring recent patterns for the club's youth-focused recruitment under Arne Slot.

This clarification echoes a separate Romano update on another defender, where he confirmed an "agreement in place" for a talented Austria Wien centre-back like Ndukwe to join from summer 2026. Ordonez, scouted amid Liverpool's global talent hunt, fits the profile of an emerging "talented centre-back," but excited headlines overstated the immediacy. Earlier reports from December noted Liverpool's scouting interest, yet no advanced negotiations exist for mid-season.

Fans remain optimistic about bolstering the backline, but Romano urges caution against unverified buzz. As January looms, Liverpool prioritize squad depth without rash moves, focusing on long-term gems like Ordonez for future contention.

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