Aston Villa contacts Club Brugge over Ecuadorian defender Joel Ordóñez

English Premier League club Aston Villa has initiated contact with Belgian side Club Brugge to explore the potential signing of 22-year-old Ecuadorian defender Joel Ordóñez. The approach was reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, a publication associated with The New York Times.

Ordóñez is among the defensive targets being evaluated by Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, as the club seeks to bolster its backline. While Aston Villa has also reportedly negotiated for Taylor Harwood-Bellis of Southampton, no agreement has been reached for that transfer. Ornstein indicated that discussions with Club Brugge regarding Ordóñez are progressing positively, though no deal has been finalized yet.

The Ecuadorian international has been a subject of transfer speculation for several windows, attracting interest from various prominent European clubs. Previously, Liverpool had monitored the defender, and reports from CaughtOffside suggest Liverpool and Tottenham have kept tabs on his situation. Juventus also considered Ordóñez but opted for other alternatives. Club Brugge is reportedly seeking around 45 million euros for a potential transfer.

Ordóñez's career has seen him progress through Club Brugge's system, including their affiliate team Club NXT, before establishing himself in the first team. He has gained experience in the Belgian league and the Champions League. His performances also earned him a place in the Ecuador national team, where he was a standout defender during the 2026 World Cup. Ordóñez is currently under contract with Club Brugge until 2029.

“

Aston Villa make contact with Club Brugge for Joel Ordonez. 22yo Ecuador international among options #AVFC considering to bolster at centre-back & approach made to #ClubBrugge. No agreement so far on Taylor Harwood-Bellis.