Chelsea to send Kendry Páez on loan to Strasbourg in 2025

Chelsea has finalized its decision regarding the future of Kendry Páez, the Ecuadorian prodigy currently playing for Independiente del Valle (IDV). The London club, which signed the midfielder earlier this year, will officially integrate him into their ranks when he turns 18 in 2025. However, according to The Athletic, the plan is for Páez to be loaned out to Strasbourg, a Chelsea-affiliated club in Ligue 1, upon his arrival.

The report also indicates that Páez won’t be the only Chelsea player heading to Strasbourg, as at least two other players from the club’s youth or development programs are expected to join him on loan. This move mirrors the path of Moisés Caicedo, another Ecuadorian star who initially spent time on loan in Europe before establishing himself as one of the top midfielders in the Premier League.

Despite being only 16, Kendry Páez has already made waves in South American football, drawing comparisons to some of the brightest talents of his generation. However, his final months in Ecuador have been overshadowed by off-field controversies, which have occasionally disrupted his promising career. A move to Europe is seen as an opportunity for the youngster to distance himself from distractions and fully focus on his development.

Currently, Páez is aiming to secure the LigaPro title with IDV before his departure. While he remains a part of the Ecuadorian national team setup, his role has diminished recently under coach Sebastián Beccacece, with Páez starting games on the bench in the most recent international fixtures.

In 2024, Páez has demonstrated his immense potential, featuring in 38 matches for Independiente del Valle, scoring 8 goals and providing 5 assists. At just 16 years old, he is valued at €12 million, making him the most expensive player in Ecuador’s LigaPro this year. His move to Chelsea underscores his status as one of the brightest young stars in world football.