June 05, (THEWILL) – Chelsea have announced a major signing, as they have secured a deal to bring 16-year-old Independiente del Valle midfielder, Kendry Paez, to their ranks.
Paez, regarded as one of the most promising talents in South America, showcased his skills at the Under-20 World Cup, registering an impressive tally of one goal and three assists in Ecuador’s four matches during the tournament. The agreement, set to come into effect in the summer of 2025 upon Paez’s 18th birthday, is reportedly worth up to €20m, including various performance-related bonuses, which sets a new record for a player of his age.
The upcoming addition of Paez to Chelsea’s squad has been confirmed by the club, expressing their enthusiasm for the young midfielder’s arrival. Renowned for his dazzling dribbling, astute vision, and precise passing, Paez has already established himself as one of the brightest and most creative talents in South America. His rapid rise was evident when he notched a goal in his debut for Independiente del Valle’s senior team this year, setting the record as the youngest debutant and scorer in Ecuador’s top flight.
In addition, Paez has made six appearances at the senior level this season and marked his continental debut with a remarkable performance, contributing to a 2-1 victory over Corinthians in the Copa Libertadores in early May. Independiente del Valle has consistently nurtured Ecuador’s top talents, and Paez is the latest prodigy to emerge from their ranks. As an attacking midfielder with the ability to excel in wide positions, Paez made an immediate impact when he scored on his senior team debut at the age of 15 in February 2023.
Since then, he has continued to impress with his stellar displays both domestically and internationally. Paez’s potential was recognised when he was selected to represent Ecuador in the U20 World Cup this summer, making his debut for the national team just two weeks after turning 16. Throughout the tournament, he stood out as a standout performer, despite Ecuador’s elimination in the round of 16.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
