Chelsea have made a significant request regarding their highly-rated young star Kendry Páez, seeking to bring him to Europe ahead of schedule to ensure he is fully acclimatised before officially joining the squad at 18.
Páez, one of the most exciting young prospects signed under the Todd Boehly era, has already made waves in international football. The 17-year-old Ecuadorian has featured regularly for his national team alongside Chelsea record signing Moisés Caicedo, earning 17 caps since his debut in 2023.
He also made history by breaking Pelé’s record as the youngest South American to contribute to a goal in a World Cup qualifier, providing an assist in Ecuador’s 2-1 victory over Uruguay.
While it was widely expected that Páez would continue playing for Independiente del Valle until the summer before linking up with Chelsea, recent developments suggest a change in plans.
According to Luis Fernando Saritama, Chelsea are keen for the teenager to begin his adaptation to European football immediately.
“The intention of both is to have a period of adaptation in Europe before he turns 18,” Saritama told Futbolecuador.
He further explained: “Last week we spoke with Kendry Páez, there are two possibilities. Chelsea has requested that the player have a period of adaptation in Europe from now on. We are analysing it with his representation agency and the club that owns his rights.”
Páez is set to make his first trip to Europe soon, with key discussions ongoing regarding his immediate future.
“On the 17th or 20th of this month, Kendry Páez will make his first trip to Europe. What prevails here is the decision of the club and the player, and the intention of both is to have a period of adaptation in Europe before he turns 18,” Saritama added.
With this plan in motion, there is now uncertainty over whether Páez will continue playing for Independiente del Valle in the coming months.
“I would not rule out the possibility that Kendry will not play with us these months, however, the issue of the adaptation period is being evaluated. He has told us of his intention to have an adaptation period in Europe and we understand that,” Saritama concluded.
Chelsea’s strategy highlights their commitment to ensuring Páez is ready for first-team football under Enzo Maresca next season. If the move materialises, it could give the teenage sensation a crucial head start in his development at Stamford Bridge.