Rangers Plotting Swoop For This Former Chelsea Defender: A Market Opportunity They Must Not Miss | OneFootball

In one of his latest posts, Fabrizio Romano has shared another exciting transfer update for the Rangers fans. Xavier Mbuyamba has rejected a contract extension offer at Volendam, and the newly promoted Eredivisie side are expected to entertain a bid of around €500,000 amid interest from the Light Blues and Belgian outfit Gent. However, the young centre-half is also on the radar of English Championship pair Southampton and Watford, Sky Sports (as cited by The Daily Echo) understands.

Having enjoyed first-team minutes with MVV in Eerste Divisie at the age of 16, Mbuyamba joined the academy ranks of Barcelona and featured for their reserves. Chelsea snapped him up in the summer of 2020, but his progress was delayed due to a meniscus injury. The Dutchman returned to his homeland two years later with Volendam and was eventually named the club captain ahead of the 2023–24 season.

But the youngster missed the majority of the campaign due to a heart issue. He underwent surgery to have an S-ICD implanted as primary prevention, and his absence hit Palingboeren hard, thus leading to their relegation from the top tier of Dutch football.

A Gamble Worth Taking?

The former Netherlands youth international came back stronger, as he helped his side clinch an immediate Eredivisie promotion by winning the 2024-25 Eerste Divisie title. But his contract situation has now presented a market opportunity to Rangers, with Volendam willing to accept a minuscule fee over losing him for nothing next year. The heart condition has further reduced the once highly-rated centre-back’s valuation.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 11: Xavier Mbuyamba of Chelsea tackles Mika Biereth of Arsenal during the Papa John’s Trophy match between Arsenal U21 and Chelsea U21 at Emirates Stadium on January 11, 2022, in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

The Gers went through a similar scenario seven years ago. They roped in Connor Goldson from Brighton & Hove Albion despite being diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm, a life-threatening condition. But he was ever-present for them over the next six seasons and made more than 310 appearances before leaving for Aris Limassol last summer.

Why Rangers Need Further Reinforcements In Deep Defence

Russell Martin has already scripted a defensive overhaul by tying down Max Aarons, Emmanuel Fernandez and Nasser Djiga. Fernandez and Djiga have restored parity in deep defence, with Leon Balogun released and Neraysho Kasanwirjo returned to Feyenoord after an injury-ravaged loan spell. Rafael Fernandes was brought in on a short-term loan from Lille, but the Portuguese outcast was hardly involved as he failed to impress both Philippe Clement and Barry Ferguson.

With Clinton Nsiala not seeming in Martin’s plans, Rangers are further decimated amid reports of Robin Propper’s return to FC Twente. Trabzonspor could submit an offer for John Souttar, and the Scotsman’s exit would potentially leave them with no senior central defender from the previous campaign.

Mbuyamba, 23, netted five goals last season in 34 league appearances. At 6 ft 5 in, he offers a significant aerial threat. While the passing game has room for improvement, his blocking and tackling traits, no-nonsense clearances and the towering presence in the heart of the backline must see him flourish in Martin’s set-up.