Aston Villa are likely to push negotiations for one of their old transfer targets from last summer as they look to complete an immediate move.
Aston Villa have just endured a woeful start to the Premier League campaign. Their heavy defeat last weekend marked their worst-ever result on the opening day in the Premier League era. The sale of Ezri Konsa without an ideal replacement being brought in is one of the reasons behind their poor start.
They are now working to secure new signings before deadline day, with Villa reportedly looking to bring in at least two defenders and one or possibly two forwards in preparation for a long and demanding campaign.
Recently, their offer for Southampton defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis was rejected. Talks over an improved proposal are still ongoing, but Villa have now turned their attention to another target, according to Sport Witness.
“Aston Villa are working on signing a new centre-back, after Ezri Konsa’s sale to Arsenal last week. The Europa League winners have Club Brugge’s Joel Ordóñez on their list and have already made advances.”
Joel Ordóñez first attracted Unai Emery’s attention during the 2024/25 season when Aston Villa and Club Brugge faced each other in the Champions League.
Villa then monitored his situation last summer, when the Ecuadorian was also being targeted by PSG, Chelsea and West Ham. The 22-year-old defender remains under contract until the summer of 2029. This time, however, the Lions have expressed a serious interest in signing him rather than simply keeping tabs on the centre-back.
The player is reportedly also interested in joining the Premier League side, with personal terms already agreed. However, the two clubs have yet to reach an agreement over the transfer fee despite ongoing negotiations, which have reportedly reached a crucial stage.
Club Brugge have placed a relatively high price tag on Ordóñez, believed to be around £34-35 million. During the January 2026 transfer window, they reportedly rejected a proposal from Crystal Palace worth around that amount. Villa should therefore prepare for a difficult negotiation.
However, there could be an opportunity for Emery’s side to push for a lower fee. Ordóñez has been injured since the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which could give Villa additional leverage during negotiations.
The former Independiente del Valle defender has become a key figure for the Belgian side, particularly since his second season there in 2024/25.Last season, Ordóñez made 45 appearances and scored four goals. He also helped Club Brugge reach the Champions League knockout play-off stage. Unfortunately, he suffered foot injury in the clash against Mexico in the world cup knock out stage.
Based on data from FotMob, he excelled in several areas while playing in the domestic league. His xG stood at 1.91, while his xA was 0.92.
His successful passing rate reached 91%, while he completed 50% of his crosses. His successful dribble rate stood at 60%, while he won 56.2% of his duels. Ordóñez also showed impressive defensive numbers, making 37 tackles, 25 interceptions, 21 blocks and 116 clearances.
With his age, experience in European competition and impressive defensive statistics, the Ecuadorian could provide Villa with a long-term option at centre-back following Konsa’s departure.
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