Aston Villa are looking to add more depth to the defensive unit, especially after the departure of Ezri Konsa.

They have identified Joel Ordonez as a target. According to TEAMtalk, they have already agreed personal terms with the Ecuador international, and the 22-year-old wants to move to Villa Park this summer.

Joel Ordonez emerges as Aston Villa target

However, Aston Villa will need to agree on a deal with Club Brugge. The Belgian club will not want to lose the player easily. Brugge signed the player from Independiente de Valle in 2022, and he has been a key player for them ever since. The player has a contract with the Belgian club until 2029, and they are under no pressure to sell him for cheap. Any club hoping to sign the player will have to be a premium.

It remains to be seen whether Aston Villa can get the deal done. The Belgian outfit will hold out for a fee of around £43 million for the defender.

Ordonez was heavily linked with a move to Liverpool in January, and Liverpool had reportedly agreed to pay £43 million for him. However, former manager Arne Slot decided to back out of the deal.

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Ordonez could strengthen Villa defence

Joel Ordonez lining up for the Ecuador national team (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)

Ordonez has the physicality and defensive attributes to help Aston Villa tighten up at the back, and he could help them do well in the league and in Europe this season.

It remains to be seen whether Aston Villa can get the deal across the line. There is no doubt that they have the resources to sign the player. The proceeds from Konsa’s departure will certainly help close the deal.

If Aston Villa are serious about completing the deal, the move should be done before the window closes. With the 22-year-old defender keen, the two clubs are expected to agree on a fee eventually.