Aston Villa approaches Joel Ordonez from Club Brugge
Aston Villa has made an approach to sign defender Joel Ordonez from Club Brugge. The club announced this on August 21 via The Athletic. Ordonez is 22 years old and has 20 caps for Ecuador, including three appearances at the 2026 World Cup.
Financial considerations
Villa doubts whether its budget can meet the financial level required, as it also needs to strengthen other positions, notably in the attacking midfield. Ordonez is on a list of three options to replace Ezri Konsa in central defence, who joined Arsenal on Friday for a deal worth £51 million plus add‑ons.
Other transfer activity
The approach follows an £18 million bid, plus add‑ons, for Taylor Harwood‑Bellis, which was rejected. Harwood‑Bellis, 24, was left out of Southampton’s 2‑1 victory over Stoke City due to doubts about his future, keeping the club and the player apart.
Ordonez’s background
Ordonez joined Club Brugge in August 2022 after progressing through the youth ranks at Ecuadorian clubs Deportivo Azogues and Independiente del Valle. He has become a regular in Club Brugge’s midfield and is now considered by Aston Villa as a potential replacement for Konsa.
Upcoming matches
Aston Villa begins its Premier League season away to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday. The club hopes a successful transfer of Ordonez can strengthen the defence for the new season.
