Chelsea are reportedly considering parting ways with Kendry Paez after two disappointing loan spells, raising further questions about whether the Ecuadorian youngster can fulfil his potential at Stamford Bridge.

Paez arrived at Chelsea alongside fellow highly rated prospect Estevao Willian, with both players expected to become important figures in the club’s long-term plans. However, the Ecuadorian attacking midfielder has yet to make a senior appearance for the Blues, and his prospects under manager Xabi Alonso appear increasingly uncertain.

The 19-year-old’s situation has reportedly become more complicated since returning to Chelsea in the summer. Rather than joining the first-team squad, he was assigned to the club’s Under-21 side, a development that has intensified speculation about his future.

According to Bolavip, Chelsea’s Under-21 coaching staff have raised concerns about Paez’s performances and progress. Their reported assessment could influence the club’s decision on whether to arrange another loan or consider a permanent transfer when the January window opens.

Despite the concerns, Paez has shown occasional signs of promise. He recently registered an assist in a match against Liverpool’s Under-21 team, offering some encouragement after a difficult period. He also received recognition from supporters, with 57 per cent of Sofascore voters selecting him as their Man of the Match.

Nevertheless, uncertainty remains over whether he will have a future at Chelsea. Reports suggest the player is also unhappy with his current circumstances and could be open to leaving during the January transfer window if an appropriate opportunity emerges.

His previous loan experiences have contributed significantly to the uncertainty. Paez spent part of 2025 with Strasbourg in France, making 21 appearances and scoring once before the arrangement was ended earlier than expected.

Although he gained experience in European football, regular playing time proved difficult to secure. He reportedly started only four of his 15 appearances in Ligue 1, limiting his opportunities to establish himself in the team.

His time in France also attracted scrutiny over his lifestyle, professionalism and the support available to him during the loan spell, according to reports from L’Équipe. Those concerns added to the difficulties surrounding his development away from Chelsea.

A subsequent move to Argentine giants River Plate also failed to produce the expected breakthrough. Paez was initially expected to spend two years at the club, but he returned to Chelsea after making just 14 appearances, bringing the temporary arrangement to an early conclusion.

Argentine journalist Renzo Pantich reportedly indicated that River Plate had concerns about the youngster’s conduct both on and off the pitch. The reported issues have added another layer of uncertainty as Chelsea assess how best to manage his development.

With both loan spells ending prematurely, Chelsea now face an important decision regarding the teenager’s next step. Another temporary move remains a possibility, potentially to a different club in England where he could receive more consistent playing opportunities and support.

However, a permanent departure could also be considered if Paez fails to demonstrate the improvement required to meet the club’s expectations. Chelsea have several young attacking prospects competing for opportunities, and the club may decide to prioritise those showing clearer progress.

For now, no final decision on Paez’s future has been confirmed. His performances in the coming months could prove important in determining whether he receives another opportunity to develop through a loan or leaves Stamford Bridge permanently.