Premier League giants Chelsea announced on Monday that they have reached an agreement to sign promising Ecuadorian Under-20 international Kendry Paez from Independiente del Valle.
The 16-year-old is regarded as one of the most talented young players in South America and has already made five appearances for Independiente del Valle in Ecuador's top-flight this season.
However, Paez will officially join Chelsea once he turns 18 in May 2025.
Paez, who primarily plays as a midfielder, played a crucial role for Ecuador in the Under-17 Copa America this year, contributing two goals as his team finished as runners-up to Brazil.
As Chelsea aim to rebuild under the guidance of their new manager Mauricio Pochettino, Paez represents their first signing of the summer transfer window.
The club hopes to strengthen their squad after a disappointing 12th-place finish in the Premier League, their worst performance since 1994.
