Kendry Páez is reportedly ready to leave Chelsea when the January transfer window opens, with the Ecuador international currently outside Xabi Alonso’s senior plans at Stamford Bridge.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder joined Chelsea with a major reputation after the club agreed a deal to sign him from Independiente del Valle while he was still 16. However, his progress has stalled and he is now mainly featuring for Chelsea’s Under-21 side.
Kendry Páez reportedly ready for January Chelsea exit
Transfer journalist Nicolò Schira has reported that Páez is “ready to leave Chelsea” during the winter window. FootballTransfers has also stated that he is not currently part of Alonso’s first-team plans.
Alonso confirmed in September that Páez was outside his senior squad, leaving the club to consider the best route for the player’s development.
Páez’s recent loan spells have provided little stability. His time at Strasbourg last season ended early before he moved to River Plate, but that arrangement was also cut short in August.
Despite those setbacks, the talent that initially attracted Chelsea remains clear. Páez made his Ecuador debut as a teenager and established a reputation for creativity and confidence during his time at Independiente del Valle.
International team-mate Moisés Caicedo previously offered a strong assessment of the midfielder, saying: “Kendry is a star. Watching him play is a pleasure.”
Caicedo added that Páez has the ability to “go far” if he stays on the right path.
A loan move could offer Páez a fresh start
Chelsea are unlikely to benefit from making a permanent decision on Páez while his career is lacking continuity. A carefully chosen loan to a club prepared to give him regular starts could provide a more suitable next step.
For Páez, the priority appears to be consistent playing time, responsibility and the chance to settle in one environment after a succession of moves between Ecuador, France, Argentina and England.
