Report: Liverpool enter race to sign two teenage stars in South America | OneFootball

Michael Edwards’ South American Vision: A Bold New Era for Liverpool

Liverpool’s South American Strategy Takes Shape

Michael Edwards’ return to Liverpool always felt like more than just a nostalgic reunion. His eye for talent and strategic approach to recruitment transformed Liverpool during his first spell, and now, as he resumes control, the focus is shifting towards a region he has long admired. As Anfield Watch reports, “Over the years, Anfield Watch understands the club’s chief has been pushing the Reds to enter the South American market.”

This isn’t a new ambition. Edwards had previously sought to bring Rodrygo to Anfield before his move to Real Madrid, and Julian Alvarez, who still remains on Liverpool’s radar. However, as Anfield Watch explains, Klopp and his staff had reservations at the time about integrating players from South America. Furthermore, the lack of a clear developmental pathway made it difficult to convince young talents to choose Liverpool over alternative European destinations. But that obstacle may soon be removed.

Photo: IMAGO

The Multi-Club Model Opens Doors

One of the primary motivations behind Edwards’ return was Fenway Sports Group’s (FSG) commitment to adopting a multi-club model. Brighton and the Red Bull franchise have shown the benefits of such a system, where players can be nurtured within an affiliated club before making the step up. Liverpool’s ownership has been actively searching for a club to fit this structure, nearly acquiring Bordeaux last summer before deciding against the move.

With a multi-club model, Liverpool can finally provide the clear progression route that had previously been missing. Instead of competing with European powerhouses for South American prospects only to loan them out aimlessly, the club could oversee their development within an FSG-owned team before transitioning them to Anfield. This approach is already shaping Liverpool’s recruitment plans, particularly with two highly-rated Ecuadorian prospects.

Liverpool Eyeing Ecuadorian Wonderkids

Independiente del Valle has been a breeding ground for top-tier talent in recent years, with Moises Caicedo, Piero Hincapie, and Kendry Paez emerging from their ranks. Given the club’s strong track record, it’s no surprise that Liverpool have been closely monitoring their next generation.

As Anfield Watch exclusively revealed, “Liverpool want to sign Independiente’s Deinner Ordonez, who at 15 years old is already playing at the U20 Sudamericana and training with the club’s first team.” A commanding centre-back, Ordonez is already showcasing his potential despite his young age. The ability to compete at a higher age group speaks volumes about his maturity and talent.

Liverpool aren’t stopping there. Reports suggest that the club is also in the race to sign Johan Martinez, another 15-year-old from Independiente’s academy. Martinez, a two-footed winger. However, with FIFA regulations preventing overseas transfers for players under 18, Liverpool must act creatively.

There’s a precedent for securing players in advance. Chelsea locked in Kendry Paez well before his 18th birthday, ensuring he would eventually join the club. Liverpool could look to negotiate similar deals for both Ordonez and Martinez, effectively securing their futures before they become fully-fledged stars. However, competition looms large, with Manchester City and Brighton also interested in Martinez.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans have every reason to be excited by these developments. South America has long been a goldmine for world-class talent, and it’s about time the club took this market seriously. Seeing players like Moises Caicedo and others make an impact in the Premier League after being overlooked by Liverpool has been frustrating. Now, under Michael Edwards’ guidance, there’s hope that similar mistakes won’t be repeated.

The key question is whether Liverpool can secure the infrastructure needed to make this work. Brighton’s success with Union SG didn’t happen overnight, and FSG must be prepared to invest in a partnership or outright club acquisition to make this model viable. Until then, competing with City and Chelsea for South American talent will remain an uphill battle.

Yet, for all the challenges, this is an exciting time. If Liverpool can pull off a deal for Ordonez and Martinez, it would mark the beginning of a new era in recruitment. After years of missing out on South America’s brightest prospects, the tide may finally be turning in Liverpool’s favour.