Crystal Palace have seen a bid for Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez rejected as they continue their search for defensive reinforcements late in the winter transfer window.The offer failed to meet Bru...
Crystal Palace have seen a bid for Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez rejected as they continue their search for defensive reinforcements late in the winter transfer window.
The offer failed to meet Brugge’s valuation of the 21-year-old centre-back, who remains a key figure for the Belgian champions.
Palace are looking to strengthen at the back following the departure of captain Marc Guehi to Manchester City last month.
That exit has left Oliver Glasner short of senior centre-back options during a difficult run of league form.
In Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest, Palace again had to manage limited defensive resources.
Chadi Riad made only his second appearance since returning from a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained last January.
The Moroccan started alongside Maxence Lacroix and Chris Richards, with 19-year-old Jaydee Canvot named on the bench.
Midfielder Jefferson Lerma has also been used in defence when required.
Palace’s approach for Ordonez reflected a desire to add a long-term solution rather than short-term cover.
The Ecuador international signed a new contract with Club Brugge in September, extending his deal until 2029.
That agreement has strengthened Brugge’s position in negotiations.
Ordonez has established himself as a key part of Brugge’s squad over the past two seasons.
He has made 27 appearances in all competitions this campaign, scoring once.
The defender joined Brugge from Independiente del Valle in August 2022 after making his senior debut in Ecuador earlier that year.
He initially featured for Club NXT, Brugge’s reserve side, before progressing into the first team.
His breakthrough came towards the end of the 2023-24 season, when he played a role in Brugge’s run to the semi-finals of the Conference League.
Last season he made 45 appearances across all competitions as Brugge reached the Champions League last 16.
Those performances have elevated his standing both domestically and internationally.
Ordonez has been capped eight times by Ecuador and was included in their squad for the 2024 Copa América.
He did not feature during the tournament but remains part of the national team picture.
Palace are understood to admire his physical profile, composure and potential resale value.
However, Brugge’s firm stance on his valuation has complicated any immediate move.
With the deadline approaching, Palace face a decision on whether to return with an improved offer or explore alternative targets.
The club are juggling multiple priorities, with outgoing and incoming deals still in motion.
Strengthening in central defence remains a clear objective.
For now, Ordonez remains in Belgium.
Palace’s pursuit, however, underlines the scale of the rebuild required following Guehi’s departure.
Category: General Sports
