Crystal Palace Snatches Ordonez Deal from Aston Villa

Crystal Palace has entered the race to sign Ecuadorian defender Joel Ordonez, currently with Club Brugge, in an attempt to snatch the deal from Aston Villa, who has been working to secure the player in recent days.

According to the BBC, Crystal Palace has begun direct talks with the Belgian club regarding the 22-year-old defender, who has been a long-standing target for the London club. Club Brugge values Ordonez at around £40 million.

Crystal Palace has moved quickly to strengthen their backline, especially after the injury to Cheikhou Kouyaté, despite already signing Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea. Meanwhile, Aston Villa has made Ordonez one of their top targets to replace the departure of Ezri Konsa to Arsenal.

Recent updates indicate that Crystal Palace is very close to finalizing the deal, having reached an agreement with Club Brugge for a transfer that could reach €30 million plus bonuses. Meanwhile, Ordonez has given his approval for the move, with only the medical examination remaining to officially complete the transfer.