In June 2023, Chelsea reached an agreement with Independiente del Valle for Kendry Páez to arrive at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2025, after he turns 18 years of age.
Páez will turn 18 in May but has already made a trip to London. The Blues initially wanted him to stay for a month, but he’s likely to stay at the west London club permanently.
El Comercio reported this on Wednesday, while Independiente del Valle sporting director Luis Fernando Saritama said Páez’s visit to Chelsea was to adapt to his new surroundings.
Independiente del Valle commercial manager Andrés Larriva has been speaking to Mach Deportes, and they took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to relay his comments. He states the highly rated midfielder is unlikely to represent the Ecuadorian club again.
The official adds the incoming Chelsea player decided to travel to Europe because he was impacted by the social media comments.
“Kendry Páez is in London with his new club. Everything that has been said on social media has affected him, that’s why he travelled to Europe to adapt and be ready for his new club,” he said.
“I see it very complicated that Kendry returns to play for Independiente del Valle. He is looking for his home in London and focused on his future.”
Páez’s development at Independiente del Valle had caught the attention of several clubs in Europe before Chelsea won the battle. He also made his debut for Ecuador in 2023 and made 17 appearances for them so far.
According to ESPN, the youngster has been subjected to criticism for his poor form and off the pitch incidents last year. This includes the 17-year-old being spotted at a night club in March 2024.
