Since the ownership change at Chelsea Football Club, with Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali taking over, the Blues have spent over £1 billion in signings, despite the club struggling with a disappointing start to the season in the Premier League.
Interestingly, one of their latest young signings is making a name for himself in South American football and has announced his arrival at the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup qualifiers even before joining Stamford Bridge.
Kendry Páez breaks Conmebol record
Ray Kendry Páez Andrade, a 16-year-old sensation hailing from Ecuador is making the headlines in South America following his new record as he became the youngest-ever goal scorer in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers.
The Ecuador international scored his first-ever international goal, a record-breaking goal in added time, cementing his name in the history books. He was assisted by none other than Moises Caicedo, his future clubmate from Chelsea, as Ecuador defeated Bolivia 2-1 in the World Cup qualification fixture.
At the age of 15, Paez achieved the title of the youngest goalscorer and debutant in the history of Ecuadorian top-flight football. This summer he shone at the U20 World Cup in Argentina and captained his side in U-17 Copa America.
In U-17 Copa America he made 8 goal contributions with two goals and 6 assists. Paez is a dynamic midfielder who can play at multiple positions as well on the wings. He was recognized as the top talent at the Next Generation Trophy, a youth tournament that includes clubs from around the world, last year.
Kendry Páez plays his club football for Ecuadorian top division club Independiente del Valle and made his debut appearance in the Copa Libertadores-south America biggest club tournament equal to the UEFA Champions League.
Páez set for Chelsea move in 2025
The Ecuadorian wonder kid signed a pre-contract agreement with the premier league giants Chelsea FC who have agreed with Independiente del Valle club for a £17.2 million deal transfer fee.
Paez has featured in 21 appearances for his club with 2 goals and an assist, he will fly to London to join the Blues though Chelsea have to wait for two more years to see him in action in the Premier League.
Mauricio Pochettino‘s side is currently resting in the 11th position in the league table with only 3 wins in 8 matches. The Blues have been dealing with injuries and poor form since the appointment of the Argentine head coach this season.
