Two of the Championship’s biggest clubs — Southampton and Watford — are preparing for promotion pushes in the upcoming campaign. And both are now circling one highly rated centre-back who has already passed through the academies of two European giants.
Sources suggest both clubs have identified the same 23-year-old as a priority defensive target — a towering figure with technical pedigree and an eye for goal.
A Crossroads Summer for Both Clubs
Southampton, led by new head coach Will Still, are aiming for an immediate Premier League return after last season’s relegation. Watford, meanwhile, are rebuilding after back-to-back frustrating campaigns, hoping to rediscover the ambition that once made them top-flight regulars.
New additions will be key for both sides — especially at centre-back, where physicality and calmness under pressure are crucial. And that's exactly what this player offers.
So, Who Is the Target?
The player in question is Xavier Mbuyamba, currently with FC Volendam in the Eredivisie.
At 6ft 5, the Dutch defender is a dominant presence in both boxes. But it’s his technical background that adds real intrigue. A product of MVV Maastricht, Mbuyamba was snapped up by Barcelona in 2019 before joining Chelsea a year later.
Though he didn’t break through at Stamford Bridge, his development continued, and he’s now racked up 75 senior appearances for Volendam, scoring 10 goals along the way.
Watford’s Long-Term Interest vs. Southampton’s Project
According to Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, Watford have tracked Mbuyamba for a few years — even making an enquiry in 2023 when Celtic and Sampdoria also showed interest. Their familiarity with the player could give them an edge.
But Southampton now present serious competition. With the arrival of Will Still and a project focused on youth and fluid football, St Mary's could be an appealing destination for a player still tipped to fulfil his early promise.
Volendam Ready to Sell
Mbuyamba is under contract until summer 2026, but Volendam are open to selling now while they can still command a decent fee. With both English clubs well-positioned financially compared to most Eredivisie sides, a deal could be struck if the bidding begins.
One to Watch This Window
At just 23, Xavier Mbuyamba still has time to rise to the levels once expected of him at Barcelona and Chelsea. His profile — a rare blend of size, skill, and top-level experience — makes him a standout target in the Championship this summer.
Expect this transfer story to develop quickly.
