Joel Ordóñez has moved closer to becoming an Aston Villa player after Club Brugge reportedly accepted the principle of a loan containing an obligation to buy.
TEAMtalk reports that the proposed package would be worth less than £30million, representing a significant breakthrough in negotiations between the clubs.
Joel Ordóñez transfer structure cuts Aston Villa cost
Villa had already agreed personal terms with Ordóñez, but Brugge were previously reported to be seeking as much as £43million for the Ecuador international.
The latest structure would allow Villa to sign the defender on loan before an obligation makes the transfer permanent at the end of the season. The exact fee, payment schedule and conditions have not been disclosed.
An agreement in principle over the structure does not mean the transfer is complete. Both clubs must settle the final terms before Ordóñez can undergo the remaining formalities.
Aston Villa make Ordóñez their leading defensive target
The 22-year-old has emerged as Villa’s preferred replacement for Ezri Konsa after Sunday’s 4-0 defeat against Brighton exposed Unai Emery’s defensive problems.
Club Brugge’s official statistics show Ordóñez started 30 league matches last season, scored three goals and won 141 of his 251 duels. He also represented Ecuador at the World Cup and has Champions League experience.
Villa have also considered Fikayo Tomori and Taylor Harwood-Bellis, but Brugge’s willingness to accept Villa’s proposed structure has moved Ordóñez to the front of the queue.
FotMob currently lists the defender as day to day with a foot injury. His fitness must therefore be assessed during any medical.
Villa have made an important breakthrough, but no completed agreement or medical has yet been confirmed.
