Crystal Palace have seen their initial bid for Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez turned down, as the Eagles intensify their search for a replacement for Marc Guehi following his departure to Manchester City earlier in the transfer window.
Palace's Transfer Deadline Day Activity
The South London club are poised for a frantic conclusion to the January transfer window, with several deals potentially being finalised before the 7pm deadline. A medical has been scheduled for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, after Palace agreed a club-record fee to bring him to Selhurst Park.
Meanwhile, forward Jean-Philippe Mateta is expected to complete his move to AC Milan, with the player undergoing final medical assessments at the Italian giants. Amidst these developments, securing a new centre-back has emerged as a key priority for Crystal Palace, particularly after losing Marc Guehi to Premier League rivals Manchester City.
Joel Ordonez: A Target for Multiple Clubs
Joel Ordonez, the 21-year-old Ecuadorian defender currently at Club Brugge, has been identified as a potential solution to Palace's defensive needs. However, the Eagles face competition for his signature, with Liverpool also showing a strong interest in the player.
Reports from South America earlier this month suggested that Ordonez had agreed personal terms with Liverpool, while a transfer fee of approximately £35 million was close to being finalised. Although that move did not materialise, Liverpool's interest appears to remain active.
Daily Mail Liverpool reporter Lewis Steele recently commented on the situation, stating: "The Ordonez one was parked, as you say. Parked, as in not completely shoved away, I got the impression. It was more of a, 'not one right now,' but it wasn't a, 'he's not one ever.' It's clear Liverpool have been at Club Brugge games to watch him, so that could be one to consider."
Palace's Bid Rejected by Club Brugge
In an attempt to gain an advantage over their rivals, Crystal Palace submitted a formal bid for Ordonez over the weekend, according to the Daily Mail's live deadline day blog. The exact value of the offer has not been disclosed, but it was promptly rejected by Club Brugge.
It remains uncertain whether Palace will return with an improved bid or shift their focus to alternative defensive targets. Ordonez, who has earned 14 caps for the Ecuador national team, joined Club Brugge in 2023 and signed a contract extension in September, which now runs until 2029.
This development underscores the competitive nature of the transfer market, as Crystal Palace strive to reinforce their squad ahead of the deadline while navigating interest from other top clubs like Liverpool.
