Kendry Paez: Chelsea recall starlet from Strasbourg loan with next move already lined up | OneFootball

Ecuador international played under Liam Rosenior before coach moved across the Channel

Chelsea starlet Kendry Paez is set to join River Plate on loan.

Chelsea chiefs have been monitoring his development carefully and always planned to assess whether to place him elsewhere this January.

The Ecuadorian forward made 21 appearances in all competitions this season for Strasbourg, starting just four times in Ligue 1.

He played under Liam Rosenior for five months before the Englishman became the Chelsea head coach earlier this month, replacing Enzo Maresca.

Paez was signed by Chelsea from Independiente del Valle, the club that also produced Moises Caicedo. Paez made his senior debut for Ecuador at just 16 years of age in September 2023.

Chelsea believe a move to River Plate is a sensible next step for his development.

Speaking earlier this season, Rosenior said of Paez: "Kendry is a kid who has a gift. He's an ultra-talented player who adapted quickly. But what I want to highlight is the way he's adapted to the group and the way he works to be at the level. He has a remarkable attitude."