Manchester United are set to receive a boost to their transfer funds after Willy Kambwala moved closer to a permanent exit from Villarreal. The 21-year-old defender is in advanced talks to join Italian side Como, and United are due to benefit from a sell-on clause included in his 2024 departure.
Kambwala closing in on Como move
Como are expected to beat Spanish club Osasuna to Kambwala's signature. United sources described the sell-on clause as "sizeable" when the player left Old Trafford two years ago, shortly after making his debut at the age of 19.
Villarreal are only expected to receive a modest fee for the defender, which will limit the amount United ultimately collect from the deal.
Details of the original 2024 agreement
Kambwala joined Villarreal in 2024 after the Spanish club tabled an offer of €5.5million (£4.7m) plus €6m (£5.14m) in add-ons. The agreement included a buy-back option and matching rights for three years alongside the sell-on clause.
United occasionally included such clauses in player sales before Sir Jim Ratcliffe's investment in the club, but it has since become standard practice following Ineos taking charge of football operations. The clauses are now a crucial part of negotiations when players leave the club.
United's recent sell-on strategy
United included a "high percentage" sell-on clause and buyback option in the sale of Tyler Fredricson to Lausanne-Sport. Comparable clauses were also written into the sale of Radek Vitek to Middlesbrough, including a buy-back clause, matching rights and a sell-on clause of up to 35 per cent.
Ethan Williams was transferred to Peterborough last week, with United inserting a 50 per cent sell-on clause, alongside a buyback option and matching rights. Ethan Ennis completed a permanent switch to Stockport County earlier this week, with United including a 50 per cent sell-on clause, as well as buyback and matching rights clauses.
United still looking to strengthen
United still hope to add to their squad before the end of the month. Manager Michael Carrick said the club is working towards strengthening the squad.
"I just think we're looking to strengthen the squad," he said. "We're certainly working towards that, making the most of the situation that we have and trying to improve things and trying to move forward.
"You know, I said the same thing to you last time. So, yeah, certainly trying to make the most of the opportunities to finish the window stronger than we went into it. And I think we're a good way to doing that, so far."
