Injury and fee hurdle: Aston Villa eyes Club Brugge’s Ordóñez

In the Bruges training ground, 22‑year‑old defender Joel Ordóñez watches teammates while his own recovery from a month‑long injury continues, yet a personal agreement with Premier League side Aston Villa keeps his future in flux. The 22‑year‑old Ecuadorian has already signed a personal deal, but Club Brugge still holds the reins on the transfer fee.

Club Brugge, known as the Blauw‑Zwart, confirmed that Ordóñez’s departure remains possible despite his injury, club’s medical team expects him to be sidelined for roughly another month, complicating negotiations. Nevertheless, the personal agreement with Aston Villa has been reached, paving the way for a potential move to Birmingham.

Aston Villa must still negotiate the transfer fee with Club Brugge, as the English side has not yet secured an official deal. The Premier League club is eager to act quickly, but the ongoing contract and injury situation add layers of difficulty.

Club Brugge has recently bolstered its defence by signing central defender Lee Hanbeom, giving manager Ivan Leko an additional option at the back. This new signing reduces the urgency for the club to retain Ordóñez as a primary centre‑back.

Earlier this summer, Crystal Palace reportedly offered around €40 million for the Ecuadorian, a sum Het says is now unrealistic. Consequently, Club Brugge cannot rely on a record‑breaking fee and must settle for a more modest offer.

Villa also keeps a defensive alternative in reserve while discussions continue, but Ordóñez remains firmly in the club’s sights. On a personal level, no further obstacles appear to block his transfer to the English side.