Como 1907 have completed the signing of central defender Willy Kambwala from Villarreal on loan for the 2026/27 season.
The Italian club confirmed the deal on Wednesday, August 26, with the agreement running until the end of the campaign. Como also have an option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the loan period.
Kambwala, 22, joins Como as the club strengthens its defensive options ahead of the new Serie A season. The French-Congolese defender was born in Kinshasa and moved to France at a young age, where he developed his football career before joining Manchester United’s academy in 2020.
He made his senior debut for Manchester United during the 2023/24 season and went on to make 10 first-team appearances before moving to Villarreal in July 2024.
At Villarreal, Kambwala made 21 appearances across La Liga and the Copa del Rey during his first season in Spain. His campaign was part of a Villarreal side that finished fifth in La Liga and secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
His progress was later affected by a serious muscular injury, limiting his opportunities during the following season. The move to Como is therefore expected to give the young defender an opportunity to regain regular playing time and continue his development.
Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas welcomed the arrival, describing Kambwala as a quick and physically strong defender who is comfortable defending space.
Fàbregas also praised the player’s attitude and desire to improve, saying Como believe their environment can help him take another step in his career.
Reports in Italy indicate that Como have an option to sign Kambwala permanently for around €10 million, although the official announcement only confirms the existence of a purchase option.
