According to reports, the Gunners have reached a verbal agreement with the 20-year-old Ecuadorian, though a deal is far from complete at this stage.
Mikel Arteta and Edu are keen to reinforce the defensive ranks with a long-term option who can grow within the system. Arsenal had been pushing hard for Dean Huijsen, but the Bournemouth defender now looks set to join Real Madrid, prompting the Gunners to explore alternative options.
Cristian Mosquera of Valencia is also admired, but Ordonez now appears at the forefront of their plans. The Club Brugge man has impressed with his physicality, ball-playing confidence, and maturity beyond his years – attributes that fit Arsenal’s modern defensive profile.
The potential fee for Ordonez is believed to be around £25 million (£22.7m valuation on transfermarkt), which would represent a reasonably priced investment given his potential and current first-team exposure in Belgium. However, while personal terms may have been verbally agreed, Arsenal must still strike a deal with Club Brugge to complete the transfer.
There’s also fresh competition. Paris Saint-Germain have recently entered the race and could look to hijack the move by tempting the player with an offer of their own. With no agreement signed, Arsenal will need to move swiftly and decisively to get this deal over the line.
It’s clear Arsenal are determined to secure a young central defender this summer – someone who can develop behind William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. Whether Ordonez is that player remains to be seen, but the Gunners are positioning themselves early to win the race.
After missing out on Huijsen, Arsenal look likely to sign Mosquera or Ordonez, both of whom will be cheaper, but more raw than the Spanish defender. A reduced outlay at centre back may though give the club more financial power to add to their attacking fund.
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External source: ESPN Transfer News – Premier League