Manchester United have in a shocking move agreed to sell defender Willy Kambwala to Villarreal for an initial fee of €5.5m, with potential add-ons increasing to €11.5m. The deal also includes a buy-back option and a substantial share of any future sell-on fee for the 19-year-old defender.
Kambwala will travel to Spain for a medical, and the transfer is expected to be completed in the upcoming days. The France youth international, who had a year left on his contract, rejected United's latest offer after reportedly being told by manager Erik ten Hag that he was down the pecking order, with several new defenders linked to Manchester United.
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Kambwala made his senior debut last season under Ten Hag, appearing in a total of 10 matches, including eight in the Premier League and two in the FA Cup. He was given his chance amid a defensive injury crisis. United signed Kambwala from French club Sochaux for €2m in 2020, and he progressed through their academy to the first team.
With United looking to strengthen its defence, with both De Ligt and Yoro linked to the Red Devils, they face difficulties due to Profit and Sustainability Rules. The club believes this deal is beneficial. The transfer of Kambwala, a homegrown player, provides financial relief while retaining future options through the buy-back clause.
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