Paul Mitchell eyeing South American as Marc Guehi alternative?

According to reports in Ecuador, Newcastle United are showing interest in one of the most promising young defenders in South America; Joel Ordonez.

Courtesy of Ecuadorean outlet Diario Expreso, it's believed both Newcastle and Aston Villa are eyeing up the 20-year-old, who current plies his trade for Club Brugge in Belgium.

This isn't the first time we've been linked with a move for the highly-rated centre-back, with reports last month revealing our interest in the 6ft 2' South American as Paul Mitchell pushes the club to widen their search for top young talent.

Likened to Real Madrid star Antonio Rudiger, Ordonez has recently made waves for both the Ecuadorean National Team and his club, so far recording 11 appearances in the Belgian Pro League and impressing  in their UEFA Champions League campaign so far this season.

A good fit for Paul Mitchell?

Newcastle’s ageing squad, which includes 30+ defenders like Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, Emil Krafth, Kieran Trippier and Jamaal Lascelles, is thought to be a concern for Sporting Director Paul Mitchell and the rest of the Toon hierarchy. This may explain why extensive efforts are being made to poach young defenders in particular.

This practice has so far been a huge success, with Lewis Hall, Tino Livramento and Sven Botman almost guaranteed starters when fully fit.

Although there’s still some uncertainty as to whether or not the club will revisit a deal for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi next month, Ordonez may be considered a more PSR-friendly alternative to the Eagles captain who won't be allowed to leave on the cheap.

The impending return of Botman, alongside the solid on-field performances of both Burn and Schar may not warrant a move for another central defender just yet, but Ordonez certainly looks to be a hidden gem who ticks a lot of Mitchell’s boxes.