Everton Target Summer Signing of ‘Complete’ Defender Compared to Antonio Rudiger – Journalist

The new owners have settled in well after a few months at the helm, making an impressive start to their tenure.

The Friedkin Group (TFG) has taken a measured approach, and so far, their strategy has been effective.

Their most significant decision to date was appointing David Moyes as manager after Sean Dyche informed them of his decision to leave Everton.

While TFG was initially willing to give Dyche more time, they acted swiftly to secure Moyes’ return—a decision that has proven to be an inspired one.

Looking ahead, Moyes is expected to receive a substantial transfer budget in the summer, with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) not posing a concern this time.

Everton is now looking to bolster their squad, with reports indicating interest in highly rated young defender Joel Ordonez.

Everton Eye Joel Ordonez Amid Competition from Aston Villa

According to Alan Nixon via his Patreon, Everton has set their sights on Club Brugge’s promising center-back, Joel Ordonez.

The 20-year-old Ecuadorian defender has been making waves in Belgium, having debuted for the first team in 2023.

Ordonez has gained valuable experience this season, featuring in all 10 of Club Brugge’s Champions League games without missing a single minute.

His defensive contributions have been crucial, as he currently leads the tournament in clearances (57).

Interestingly, Club Brugge is still competing in the Champions League and will face Aston Villa in the Round of 16.

This gives Villa manager Unai Emery a firsthand opportunity to assess Ordonez’s abilities.

Reports suggest that Villa is “desperate” to sign him, and with a price tag of £40 million, Everton faces stiff competition.

However, Everton is reportedly prepared to make a significant bid in the summer transfer window.

Beyond club football, Ordonez has also established himself on the international stage. He made his senior debut for Ecuador last year and has since earned four caps.

Joel Ordonez Compared to Antonio Rudiger

The summer transfer window will be crucial for Everton as they seek defensive reinforcements.

With Michael Keane expected to leave when his contract expires, the club will be left with Jarrad Branthwaite, James Tarkowski (who is now 32), and Jake O’Brien—who is currently playing as a makeshift right-back.

Ordonez has emerged as an exciting prospect and has even drawn comparisons to Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger due to his defensive style.

Renowned football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who has a 300,000-strong following on X, previously described Ordonez as a “complete and dominant” defender.

Kulig highlighted Ordonez’s strengths in key areas, including pace, power, tackling, anticipation, bravery, athleticism, and aerial ability.

In January, Kulig once again praised Ordonez, stating that the young defender possesses a “complete profile” for his age.

With more experience under his belt, Ordonez appears ready to take the next step in his career.

Moving from Club Brugge to a top-tier league would be a logical progression, and Everton could provide him with the ideal platform to showcase his talent in the Premier League.

However, with Villa’s strong interest, Everton may need to act quickly if they hope to secure his signature.

It remains to be seen how this transfer battle will unfold, but Or