Premier League giants Chelsea have today confirmed the signing of Ecuadorian wonderkid Kendry Paez for a deal worth approximately $20m.

The 16-year-old midfielder initially caught the eye playing for South American side Independiente del Valle, for whom he scored on his senior debut, becoming the youngest debutant and scorer in the Ecuadorian top flight.

Blues win race for 16-year-old wonderkid

Paez has earned comparisons to Lionel Messi due to his fearless dribbling and vision in being able to unlock defenses with his excellent passing range.

The deal was confirmed by Chelsea’s official club website and Social Media profiles but the Ecuadorian will only officially join up with the Blues in the summer of 2025 once he has turned 18 due to international work permit reasons.

Chelsea Football Club has agreed a deal to sign teenage midfielder Kendry Paez from Independiente del Valle! ✍️

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 5, 2023

Until then, Chelsea have confirmed that Paez will return to Independiente del Valle on loan where he will continue his rapidly moving development.