Brighton Eyes Two Rising Ecuador U17 Stars for Future Signings
Facundo Trotta Arrieta
Dailysports's expert
Brighton & Hove Albion are once again scouting in Ecuador, this time targeting two standout players from the national U17 team: Johan Martínez and Dennier Ordóñez. The young talents, currently competing in the South American U17 Championship, have caught the attention of European scouts thanks to their impressive performances. According to Bolavip, Brighton is monitoring the duo closely as part of their long-term recruitment strategy.
Martínez, a pacey and creative winger, and Ordóñez, a commanding center-back, are both products of Independiente del Valle’s academy, a club known for producing elite-level players. While Liverpool has also shown interest in the pair, Independiente is reportedly keen to retain them longer to ensure their development continues on solid ground.
Recent sales from the Ecuadorian club include Kenny Arroyo to Besiktas for $9 million and Yaimar Medina to Belgium’s Genk for $4 million, with each deal including a future resale clause. This same model could be used if Brighton proceeds with formal offers.
Due to FIFA regulations, Brighton will have to wait until the players turn 18 to officially sign them or include them in their youth teams. The club is believed to be following a similar path to Chelsea’s acquisition of Kendry Páez. With their track record of nurturing South American talent, Brighton could soon add two more Ecuadorian names to its ranks.
