What happened to 'next van Dijk' who Frank Lampard signed for Chelsea in 2020

Xavier Mbuyamba is a name that will have Chelsea fans questioning what could have been.

The Dutchman arrived in West London in 2020 under the stewardship of Frank Lampard. His move to Stamford Bridge brought to an end a long and complicated pursuit.

Mbuyamba kicked off his career within the youth system of boyhood club MVV Maastricht. He became the club’s youngest-ever at the age of 16 and earned comparisons to countryman Virgil van Dijk.

His form saw Europe’s biggest clubs in Europe take notice including Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Real Madrid. Chelsea also made a move for him after a trial but due to a transfer ban limiting their movement at the time, they were unable to get a deal over the line.

Mbuyamba eventually moved to Barcelona. He was not in Spain for very long as the Blues - now free to sign players - moved again for his services and this time, they secured his signature.

Speaking at the time, his agent Carlos Barros said: “Chelsea have the best papers. Of course we discussed this extensively last year. Chelsea gave a fantastic presentation.

“There is a unique football atmosphere there. You immediately sit with the first-team players during lunch and the club has outlined a very ambitious plan for Xavier.”

In all, the Dutch defender made 33 appearances for the Blues under-23 side during his time in England. He was also invited to train with the first team by Lampard’s successor Thomas Tuchel.

Expressing his delight on Twitter, he wrote: "A moment I’ve been working towards since joining this incredible club. Truly blessed to be training with the first team this week. Lots to learn, and my motivation is on another level right now!”

Unfortunately for Mbuyamba, he did not enjoy the best of stints with Chelsea. His time at