Aston Villa Shifts Focus, Pursues Alternative After Benfica Target Stalls

Aston Villa are reportedly in talks to sign Club Brugge defender Joel Ordóñez, aiming to fill the void left by Ezri Konsa's recent move to Arsenal. The proposed deal involves an initial loan spell with a mandatory purchase clause set at approximately €30 million, according to The Athletic.

Unai Emery's side has identified the 22-year-old Ecuadorian international as a prime target to bolster their defensive ranks, having closely monitored his progress. The urgent need to find a replacement for Konsa, whose transfer to Arsenal fetched €60 million, has accelerated their interest in Ordóñez.

However, Aston Villa also pursued Taylor Harwood-Bellis, a former target for Benfica, who opted for Circati, but saw two bids rejected by Southampton, the latest being €24 million.

The Premier League club is currently unwilling to meet Southampton's financial demands for the 24-year-old defender, a Manchester City academy product who is notably married to Leah Keane, daughter of Manchester United legend Roy Keane.

Ordóñez joined Club Brugge in August 2022, having developed through the youth ranks of Ecuadorian clubs Deportivo Azogues and Independiente del Valle. The defender has already earned 20 caps for Ecuador, including three appearances in this summer's World Cup.