According to a report by FootballTransfers on Friday, October 23, 2026, Chelsea midfielder Kendry Páez is reportedly ready to leave Stamford Bridge during the January transfer window after failing to establish himself since joining the Premier League side from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle.

The 18-year-old completed a €10 million transfer to Chelsea in 2025 but is yet to make his senior debut for the club. His development has since encountered difficulties, leaving uncertainty surrounding his future in west London.

Páez initially moved to Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg on loan in search of valuable playing experience. However, his spell in France failed to produce the desired results. He made 21 appearances across all competitions before Chelsea recalled him in January to explore alternative options for his development.

The Ecuadorian international subsequently joined Argentine giants River Plate on loan, hoping to revive his progress. However, the move also proved unsuccessful, with River Plate terminating the agreement in August and returning the midfielder to Chelsea.

Since arriving back in England, Páez has been limited to appearances for Chelsea’s Under-21 side, with little indication that he will earn a place in manager Xabi Alonso’s senior squad under the current circumstances.

Alonso addressed the midfielder’s situation in September, making it clear that he was not part of his first-team plans and suggesting that his position was unlikely to change during the season.

“At the moment, he's not part of the first-team squad,” Alonso explained before firmly dismissing the prospect of an immediate change, adding: “No, no, he's not part of the plans.”

Transfer journalist Nicolo Schira has now reported that Páez intends to leave Chelsea when the January transfer window opens, with the youngster potentially seeking a club where he can secure regular first-team football and continue his development.

Before moving to Europe, Páez attracted significant attention with his performances in Ecuador’s top division for Independiente del Valle. However, concerns about his attitude and professionalism have reportedly emerged since his arrival in Europe.

His performances during his loan spell at Strasbourg also drew criticism from sections of the French media, increasing the importance of finding the right environment for the next stage of his career.

According to recruitment analytics company SciSports, Spanish club Getafe could be the most suitable destination for the Ecuadorian midfielder. Newcastle United occupy second place in the assessment, with a Club Fit Score of 80.

Other clubs identified as potential destinations include Italian sides Bologna and Lazio, as well as Portuguese giants Porto.

Chelsea must now determine the best course of action ahead of January, deciding whether to sanction a permanent transfer or arrange another loan spell to help Páez regain his confidence, secure regular playing time and fulfil the potential that initially attracted the club to him.