According to a report by The Athletic on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Chelsea youngster Kendry Paez is reportedly ready to leave Stamford Bridge when the January transfer window opens after struggling to secure a place in Xabi Alonso's first team plans.

Transfer journalist Nicolo Schira has reported that the Ecuadorian midfielder is prepared to leave Chelsea, although it remains unclear whether he wants another loan move or a permanent transfer.

Paez joined Chelsea last summer after turning 18, having agreed to move from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle two years earlier. He arrived with high expectations but has yet to establish himself in the senior team.

The midfielder has spent time on loan at Strasbourg and River Plate, but neither spell has helped him secure a regular role at Chelsea. He has instead been playing for the club's Under 21 side during the 2026/27 season.

His situation is concerning given the support he has received from senior Chelsea players, including captain Reece James and forward Cole Palmer. Both are reportedly convinced that Paez has the potential to become an important player for the club in the future.

In January, journalist Ben Jacobs revealed that several senior players had shown an interest in helping the youngster settle into the team.

Jacobs reported that Palmer had spoken to Paez about his long-term future at Chelsea while he was at Strasbourg, while James had also held discussions with him. He added that several experienced players believed the midfielder could become a major asset to the club.

Despite this support, Paez has struggled to make a strong impression at youth level. According to the report, he has managed just one assist in four appearances for Chelsea's Under 21s this season.

Questions have also been raised in previous reports about his professionalism, although adapting to English football and dealing with the pressure surrounding his arrival may have contributed to his difficulties.

Paez was previously regarded as one of Ecuador's brightest young talents and became the youngest goalscorer in the country's top flight. However, his future at Chelsea is now uncertain, with January potentially offering him an opportunity to find regular first-team football elsewhere.