Kendry Paez has been spotted training with Strasbourg ahead of his summer move to Chelsea.
The 17-year-old was signed by Chelsea in the summer of 2023 but had remained with Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle up until recently. Paez will officially become a Blues player this summer but the plan for him next season is uncertain as it stands. Being spotted in Strasbourg has fuelled rumours that he could end up there next term, although a decision has not been made just yet.
football.london understands the plan is for Paez to acclimatise to European culture and there is a feeling spending a few days with Strasbourg, who are owned by BlueCo, will be highly beneficial for his development. Paez will be looking to learn the training methods, as well as the demands and expectations of Liam Rosenior, who is in high demand following a strong season in France.
Back in February, Paez spent some time at Chelsea's training base in Cobham to begin his period of adaptation following the move from South America. Paez is one of several youngsters due to join Chelsea officially over the summer, with the likes of Estevao Willian, Mike Penders, Dario Essugo and Mamadou Sarr all moving to Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
Likewise, Andrey Santos, who has spent the season on loan at Strasbourg, will arrive back in SW6 over the summer. Santos has flourished on loan in France this season - scoring 10 goals in all competitions. football.london understands Chelsea plan to integrate the 20-year-old Brazilian into the first-team next season and add to their midfield options, which at the moment, are pretty limited.
