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Brugge defender Ordonez commanding interest from Chelsea and Inter

Joel Ordonez in action against Barcelona
Joel Ordonez in action against BarcelonaJEAN CATUFFE / JEAN CATUFFE / DPPI VIA AFP

Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez is quickly becoming one of the most sought after defenders in Europe.

Italian giants Inter Milan have been linked recently but Newcastle and Chelsea are among the leading Premier League clubs who are also interested in him.

Ordonez, an Ecuador international, will expect to be heading to the World Cup Finals next summer. On the club scene, Club Brugge realise they face a tough battle to keep hold of him - and the bigger question may be whether any transfer occurs before or after the tournament.

Ordonez, 21, is a calm, athletic centre-back who has been tested against both Bayern Munich and Barcelona in the Champions League this season.

He recently signed a new contract to 2029 and his Belgian club will place him in a high price bracket whenever they reach a moment they need to fend off suitors.

Ordonez's recent stats
Ordonez's recent statsFlashscore

Inter Milan are very serious about their interest in Ordonez and hope to convince him to test himself in Italy rather than being lured to the riches of the Premier League.

Newcastle have had eyes on him since last season, while Chelsea are the biggest English side arriving in the picture.

It is understood West Ham United and Aston Villa also have an interest in him. All three of Chelsea, Villa and West Ham are prioritising a new defender in 2026.

Ordonez is in the Ecuador squad to face Canada today and will be expected to be part of their World Cup squad.

He is rising as a star and we will hear plenty about him as he makes a big breakthrough in the next year.

Dean Jones
Dean JonesFlashscore