Aston Villa have moved a step closer in their pursuit of Joel Ordonez, with TeamTalk reporting that personal terms are now in place for the Club Brugge defender. The deal, however, remains delicately poised as negotiations continue over a transfer fee, with the Belgian club understood to be seeking as much as £43m.
The 22-year-old Ecuador international has “given his approval to a move to Villa Park”, a significant development as Unai Emery looks to reinforce his back line before the window closes. Villa’s priority in that area has sharpened following Ezri Konsa’s departure to Arsenal, and sources indicate Ordonez is firmly among the leading candidates under consideration.
Joel Ordonez emerges as key Aston Villa target
Villa have assessed multiple defensive options in recent weeks. An approach for Southampton centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis “has been unsuccessful so far”, pushing Ordonez further into focus. From Villa’s perspective, he appears to fit the profile Emery values, a young defender with strong physical tools, experience at a high level, and scope for further development.
Ordonez has built an impressive reputation since joining Club Brugge from Independiente del Valle in 2022. At 6ft1, he offers aerial presence and strength, while also being regarded as calm in possession. He has “established himself as a regular in the Belgian side’s defence” and has already added senior international exposure with Ecuador, including appearances “during this summer’s World Cup”.
Photo IMAGO
That progress explains Brugge’s stance. The defender signed a new contract until 2029 last year, a detail that strengthens their position and helps explain why they are demanding a premium fee.
Club Brugge stance and Liverpool background
Talks are ongoing, but “no agreement yet reached on the financial package” means Villa still have work to do. Brugge are “expected to demand up to £43m”, which is notable given that it matches the figure…
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