According to a report published by FootballTransfers on Friday, October 23, 2026, Chelsea attacking midfielder Kendry Paez is reportedly preparing to leave the club in January after struggling to make progress since joining the Blues.

The 18-year-old Ecuadorian is said to be seeking an exit from Stamford Bridge after his development failed to progress as expected following his €10 million move from Independiente del Valle in 2025.

Despite arriving with considerable potential, Paez has not yet made an appearance for Chelsea's senior team. He currently features for the Under-21 side, while manager Xabi Alonso has suggested that the teenager does not have a place in his immediate first-team plans.

His recent loan experiences have also been disappointing. During the first half of last season, he made 21 appearances across all competitions for Strasbourg before Chelsea brought him back in January.

The Ecuadorian then moved to River Plate on a temporary deal in search of more opportunities. However, his spell with the Argentine club was also cut short, with River Plate ending the arrangement in August.

Following his return to England, Paez has remained on the fringes of Chelsea's senior setup, leaving his long-term future with the Premier League club increasingly uncertain.

Alonso addressed the situation in September, confirming that the youngster was not currently involved with the first team.

"At the moment, he's not part of the first-team squad," the Chelsea boss told reporters.

Asked whether Paez could become part of his plans later in the campaign, the Spaniard reportedly gave a firm response: "No, no, he's not part of the plans."

Transfer journalist Nicolo Schira reports that Paez is now determined to find a new club when the January transfer window opens, hoping to get his career back on track.

Although several teams have been linked with a potential move for the midfielder, there is currently no confirmed agreement with any interested club.

According to SciSports, Spanish outfit Getafe could provide a suitable environment for Paez to continue his development. Newcastle United have also been highlighted as a possible destination, earning a Club Fit Score of 80.

Other clubs reportedly considered potential options include Bologna and Lazio from Italy, as well as Portuguese side Porto.

Leaving Chelsea could give the young Ecuadorian an opportunity to start afresh, secure consistent first-team minutes and regain his confidence after struggling during his previous loan spells.

Chelsea, meanwhile, must determine the best course of action for the player's future, whether that means agreeing to a permanent transfer or sending him out on another loan to help him fulfil his potential.