Newcastle and Villa both in for star Ecuadorian defender | OneFootball

Newcastle move ahead of Liverpool in race for €50m Club Brugge defender

Newcastle and Villa enter battle for defensive prospect

Newcastle United have overtaken Liverpool in the race to sign Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez, with Aston Villa also monitoring the Ecuadorian international closely. The 20-year-old centre-back has drawn widespread attention across Europe for his maturity and physical presence, but it appears Liverpool’s interest has cooled as they prioritise more experienced defensive options, according to Caught Offside.

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The report notes that “Ordonez is someone who has been on the radar of Liverpool in the past, but it now seems their focus is on other targets.” While Liverpool were previously considered frontrunners, Newcastle and Villa have now positioned themselves as serious contenders. The player is valued at around €50 million, a figure reflecting his rapid rise and the growing competition for his signature.

Premier League suitors look to strengthen

For Newcastle, Ordonez represents a potential long-term successor within their evolving defensive setup. With Sven Botman and Fabian Schär forming a strong pairing but lacking depth behind them, the recruitment team view the Ecuadorian as an investment for the future. His strong aerial ability, composure on the ball, and recovery pace align well with the physical demands of the Premier League.

Photo: IMAGO

Aston Villa’s interest is equally serious. Unai Emery has been proactive in identifying emerging talents capable of balancing youth and readiness, particularly as Villa prepare for another push in European competition. “Ordonez fits the mould of a modern central defender,” said one source cited by Caught Offside, noting that his comfort in possession and anticipation of danger are traits Emery values highly.

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The Magpies have been hit by defensive injuries this season, and Eddie Howe has often had to rely on a small core of players. Signing Ordonez would not only provide depth but also fit the club’s longer-term strategy of acquiring young, high-upside talent before their market value explodes. Supporters will be encouraged by the idea of competing with top European clubs for such a promising player.

For Aston Villa supporters, the rumour speaks to the club’s growing pull in the transfer market. Unai Emery has turned Villa into one of the most tactically astute teams in the league, and a signing like Ordonez would underline that upward trajectory. Fans at Villa Park would welcome a defender capable of blending raw ability with technical intelligence, particularly with European commitments stretching the squad.

While Liverpool appear to be stepping back, Newcastle and Villa fans will see this as a chance to strengthen their clubs’ futures. Both sides are building credible cases for consistent top-six contention, and securing a player like Ordonez would only reinforce that ambition.