Newcastle United Competing With Aston Villa For This Centre-Back: A Good Choice For Howe? | OneFootball

Newcastle United’s growing interest in young defenders has been drawing attention since a little while. The club has been exploring options that could strengthen their backline for the long time. The Magpies continue to deepen their defensive core and have reportedly shifted their focus to Joel Ordonez of Club Brugge. Several Premier League clubs continue to discuss the Ecuadorian centre-back’s name with interest.

Journalist Marc Brus reported in his exclusive for the Daily Briefing that Liverpool once tracked the player closely. However, they have cooled their pursuit, leaving Newcastle and Aston Villa as the main suitors. This change allows both clubs to move forward aggressively for the 21-year-old centre-back. Liverpool, on the other hand, are now focussing on other areas and show no sign of returning for him soon.

Newcastle United want to sign Joel Ordonez

Ordonez commands a value of around €50 million, and the Reds no longer treat him as a priority. Yet scouts across Europe admire the Ecuadorian’s strong performances in Belgium. His young age attracts clubs willing to nurture and shape his potential.

Newcastle United, who recently took steps to renew Fabian Schär’s contract, see Ordonez as a player who will possess both youth with European experience. Meanwhile, Aston Villa keep studying the market as they look to strengthen their squad depth. On the other hand, Manchester United have entered the race to sign Newcastle target Endrick earlier, which underlines how competitive this transfer period has become.

Ordonez could become Newcastle’s next defensive project

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)

Joel Ordonez, a 21-year-old Ecuador international, possesses power with calmness on the ball. Standing 6ft 2in tall, he commands his area and wins aerial duels with confidence. Many observers compare the 21-year-old’s playing style to Antonio Rudiger. He times his tackles well and carries the ball forward under pressure. Ordonez even fills in at right-back when required, which adds to his value.

The Magpies value these qualities in young defenders. Ordonez can grow into a reliable part of their setup if he adapts well to the Premier League. The Magpies view him as a long-term investment and expect him to improve under good coaching.

However, he must make faster decisions when facing quick dribblers and during counterattacks. Still, Ordonez’s potential outweighs any of those flaws. If Newcastle United beat their rivals to his signature, they will add a defender who can anchor their backline for years to come.