Crystal Palace’s move for Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez has run into complications following his medical, leaving the Eagles with a decision to make over whether to proceed with the transfer.
Palace had moved ahead of Aston Villa in the race for the 22-year-old Ecuador international and agreed an initial loan deal with Club Brugge.
The agreement included an option to buy Ordonez at the end of the season, but concerns over his recovery from a broken metatarsal have now placed the transfer in doubt.
Palace discover Ordonez injury worse than expected
Crystal Palace were already aware that Ordonez was recovering from a broken metatarsal when negotiations took place.
However, the medical has reportedly shown that the injury is worse than Palace initially believed.
That does not mean the transfer has collapsed, but the Premier League club must now decide whether they are comfortable proceeding with the deal given the defender's condition.
The loan structure potentially reduces some of the long-term financial risk, but Palace are looking for defensive reinforcement who can strengthen the squad following their own injury problems.
Chadi Riad injury increases need for defender
Palace accelerated their search for a centre-back after Chadi Riad was stretchered off against Everton on Saturday.
The Eagles responded by completing the loan signing of Axel Disasi from Chelsea on Wednesday.
However, Palace still want another central defender, which led to their move for Ordonez.
The Ecuadorian had also been targeted by Aston Villa before Palace stepped in and reached an agreement with Club Brugge.
His medical results have now created uncertainty over whether that agreement will ultimately be completed.
Palace face decision on transfer
The timing presents Palace with a difficult choice.
Their desire to sign another centre-back remains, but bringing in a player carrying a more significant injury than initially anticipated may not provide the immediate reinforcement they need.
Walking away, meanwhile, would leave Palace searching for another defensive option with limited time remaining in the transfer window.
For now, the transfer remains unresolved rather than completely off.
Key Points
- Joel Ordonez's move to Crystal Palace is in doubt following concerns raised during his medical.
- Palace knew about his broken metatarsal, but the injury is reportedly worse than originally believed.
- The Eagles had agreed an initial loan with an option to buy with Club Brugge.
- Palace have already signed Axel Disasi from Chelsea but want another defender after Chadi Riad's injury.
- The club must now decide whether to proceed with Ordonez or pursue another target.
What’s Next?
Crystal Palace will assess the medical information before making a final decision on Ordonez.
If they decide the injury represents too great a risk, the Eagles may have to move quickly for an alternative centre-back. If they remain comfortable with his recovery timeline, the existing loan agreement with Club Brugge could still proceed.
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