Aston Villa Ready To Hijack Marseille’s Move For The Ecuadorian Defender: Will It Be A Good Move? | OneFootball

In the last few seasons, Aston Villa have strongly registered their presence in the Premier League. Under the coaching of Unai Emery, the team have been a lot improved side in attack, but defensive weaknesses were clearly visible in some important matches last year.

The club made it to European competitions, but the breakdown of the defence in big matches was their biggest concern. This is the reason why Villa are eyeing a player in the transfer market who can give a new balance to their defence.

Efforts to improve the defence were made earlier as well, but injuries and lack of stability affected the team’s plans. Villa’s performance in the pre-season showed that if they have to stay in the race for the top four, then the defensive line will have to be strengthened further.

There is a growing discussion within the club that the arrival of a young and energetic centre-back can give immediate benefit to the team. In this situation, a name has started coming into the headlines, which has caught the attention of many big clubs.

Joel Ordonez’s name is in the transfer window for Aston Villa

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – JULY 20: Hans Vanaken of Club Brugge celebrates scoring his teams second goal of the game with teammates Christos Tzolis, Romeo Vermant and Joel Ordonez during the Belgian Super Cup match between Union Saint-Gilloise and Club Brugge at Joseph Marien Stadium on July 20, 2025 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

According to TBR‘s report, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and Aston Villa are all keeping a close eye on Joel Ordonez’s situation. The 21-year-old Ecuadorian centre-back’s name is especially in the news as Marseille are very close to signing him. However, Aston Villa are still considering making a last-minute inroads into the deal. For Villa, this is a chance that they can offer Ordonez enough game time, but doubts remain about his permanent place in the starting XI.

Despite Marseille’s lead, late changes in the transfer market could surprise everyone. Like Liverpool, Villa are also concerned about whether Ordonez will get a chance to play regularly or not, but Emery has flexibility in his plans. He believes that due to rotation in the team and needing depth in Europa League matches, the young defender can get enough opportunities.

Would it be the right move?

In our opinion, Joel Ordonez would be a smart move for Aston Villa. He is a fast, mobile and ball-playing defender who could fit into Emery’s strategy. Villa need a player who can not only stop but also initiate attacks from the back. Ordonez has the ability to adapt quickly to the fast pace of the Premier League.

However, it is also important to note that at the age of 21, throwing him into big matches continuously could be risky. Emery should integrate him slowly into the team so that both confidence and experience grow together. If Villa can close the deal in time, this purchase could be a big step for the future. The club have the opportunity to integrate an emerging defender into their system and make the most of him over the next few years.