Aheed Abrar
helsea close to beating Manchester United to the signing of Independiente del Valle wonderkid Kendry Paez
Premier League rivals Chelsea are close to beating Manchester United to the signing of Independiente del Valle wonderkid Kendry Paez, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano on Twitter (h/t The Sun).
The Blues are close to reaching a verbal agreement with the black and blues for the 15-year-old. However, if the Stamford Bridge side do get him, the youngster will be unable to play for them until his 18th birthday in 2025.
Graham Potter’s team had made an approach earlier as well. However, the West London-based club saw their proposal get rejected.
EXCL: Chelsea are closing in on verbal agreement with Independiente del Valle to sign Ecuadorian gem Kendry Paez — deal close to be completed. 🚨🔵🇪🇨 #CFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 23, 2023
Midfielder born in 2007, one of the best talents in South America, Kendry will be able to join Chelsea when he will turn 18. pic.twitter.com/mM6vJORa8n
Paez is seen as one of the best prospects in South America. After shining at the 2022 Next Generation Trophy, he popped up on Borussia Dortmund’s radar. However, along with the Red Devils, the Bundesliga giants also had an offer rejected for the Ecuador national.
Apart from the Old Trafford side, Bayer Leverkusen were also in the race to acquire the midfielder’s services. However, it seems like Chelsea have won the battle for the youngster’s signature.
The 15-year-old was also recently promoted to Independiente del Valle’s first team. It remains to be seen how he will develop over the years.
At the moment, United have a host of youngsters like Charlie Savage and Zidane Iqbal on their books. During pre-season, the Iraq national showcased glimpses of his talent in the middle of the park.
Alejandro Garnacho is another prospect in our ranks. The 18-year-old has broken into the Red Devils’ senior squad in the current campaign. This season, the Argentine national has come in clutch for the Old Trafford side.
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It is disappointing to miss out on a talent like Paez. However, will the 15-year-old be able to recognise his potential in the Premier League in the future? Only time will tell.
