AdminAston Villa have stepped up their search for defensive reinforcements after Ezri Konsa’s move to Arsenal, with Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordonez emerging as a potential replacement.
It has been a summer of major change at Villa Park, with Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne and Konsa all departing.
Unai Emery’s side have also strengthened, bringing in the likes of Johan Manzambi and Alejandro Garnacho, while Ollie Watkins continues to attract interest ahead of the transfer deadline.
According to Jacob Tanswell and David Ornstein of The Athletic, Villa have made an approach for Ecuador international Ordonez.
The move comes after Southampton rejected an £18million offer plus add-ons for Taylor Harwood-Bellis, forcing Villa to consider alternative options.
Harwood-Bellis remains on the club’s radar, although a deal has stalled because of the difference in valuation. Ordonez, however, is expected to cost more, making the Ecuadorian a potentially significant investment.
The 22-year-old joined Club Brugge in August 2022 after spells with Deportivo Azogues and Independiente del Valle.
He has since earned 20 caps for Ecuador and has previously been described as “outstanding” by journalist Graeme Bailey.
Ordonez’s strength, defensive awareness and ability to step out with the ball would suit Emery’s system. His composure in duels and reading of the game could make him a long-term solution following Konsa’s departure.
Villa have suffered a major loss at the back, but Ordonez could prove a smart replacement.
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