Crystal Palace have stepped up interest in signing one of Europe’s most promising young centre-backs, per reports – with Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez emerging as a target as the club braces for the likely departure of captain Marc Guehi before the window closes.
The Eagles have already sanctioned Eberechi Eze’s sale, after lengthy talks with Tottenham collapsed at the last stage when Arsenal swooped in, leaving Palace with cash to reinvest. That could spark a move for Ordonez, with Guehi’s future elsewhere expected to be decided soon amid Liverpool’s mounting pursuit.
According to Daily Mirror reporter Ryan Taylor, Palace are now considering Ordonez as part of their shortlist, preparing for what looks to be a hectic conclusion to the summer window. The club have sealed Eze’s £67.5million Arsenal switch, and Guehi may exit next if the Reds push harder for his signature.
Palace are therefore open to hearing proposals for Guehi, as they wish to avoid losing him as a free agent next summer – prompting them to draw up replacements early, with Ordonez marked down as a realistic option despite Marseille previously agreeing terms and a hijack required for the £40m-rated youngster.
Earlier Palace interest in Sporting defender Ousmane Diomande faded when their valuation fell short of expectations, making Ordonez more attainable. The versatile 21-year-old suits any defensive setup under Oliver Glasner, and after discussing Brugge’s Christos Tzolis, Palace then enquired about Ordonez to explore a possible double raid.
