Aston Villa Have To Pay €40 Million For This 21-Year-Old Defender: Should The Lions Move Forward? | OneFootball

Aston Villa continue to make moves behind the scenes as they look to add more depth to their squad. The Midlands side, already working on renewing Youri Tielemans’ contract and eyeing Mason Greenwood to boost their attack, now seems ready to strengthen their defence as well. Meanwhile, Liverpool and Newcastle United have joined the same chase, each assessing their backline with a long-term view.

Aston Villa have to pay €40 million for Joel Ordonez

Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur reports that Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United are all tracking Joel Ordonez, the promising Ecuadorian defender who plays for a Belgian club. His current team set his value at €40 million, and the Premier League sides must decide if he is worth that price.

The 21-year-old continues to impress in Belgium with his aerial strength, composure under pressure, and solid passing range. He improves his reading of the game with every appearance, and his form makes him one of the most talked-about young defenders in the market.

Liverpool view Ordonez as a future key player in defence, especially as they still search for balance between their high pressing and defensive shape. Newcastle and Villa both seek more steadiness at the back after inconsistent performances in recent weeks.

Is Joel Ordonez the Answer They Need?

AUSTIN, TEXAS – OCTOBER 10: Joel Ordoñez #4 of Ecuador stands for his national anthem during an international friendly match between United States and Ecuador at Q2 Stadium on October 10, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)

Liverpool’s defenders often struggle to win second balls and aerial duels this season. Despite their attacking strength, they concede easy goals because they lose positional discipline, and Ordonez could fix that issue.

He wins around five aerial battles per match in Belgium and keeps his focus when marking forwards in the box. Still, many question whether he can handle the faster tempo and physicality of English football. If Liverpool sign Ordonez, they must give him time to adjust to their high defensive line.

Aston Villa face a slightly different situation. Their defence looks solid, but their full-backs push high and leave gaps that a calm centre-back like Ordonez can cover.

However, since they already focus on renewing Tielemans and chasing Greenwood, they may hesitate to spend heavily on another young player. Newcastle’s defenders struggle during transitions, and Eddie Howe might prefer to bring in a more experienced option in January.

Ordonez seems ready for a move to England, but perhaps not immediately. The 21-year-old’s next step depends on which club acts first and makes the investment. If that happens, the Ecuadorian could grow into one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League in the coming years.