Kendry Paez is a Blue! Chelsea strike €20m deal to sign Ecuadorian wonderkid when he turns 18 in 2025

Chelsea have announced they have agreed a deal to sign Ecuadorian teenaged star Kendry Paez from Independiente del Valle in his home country.

16-year-old signs for Chelsea

He will not join until 2025
Blues beat Dortmund to signing

WHAT HAPPENED? It has been confirmed that the 16-year-old will join the Stamford Bridge club when he turns 18 in two years' time, after impressing for the Ecuadorian club.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Paez is a creative midfielder with an ability to dribble past opponents and carve out chances for team-mates. He recently caught the eye at the Under-20 World Cup in Argentina, becoming the youngest ever player – at 16 years and 22 days – to score a goal in the competition, helping Ecuador to the last 16 of the tournament.

AND WHAT'S MORE: It's claimed in various reports that Chelsea have paid a hefty €20m (£17.2m) package, including bonuses, beating Borussia Dortmund to the deal. Paez does not turn 18 until 2025 so it will be a while before Blues fans get to see him in action – and doubtful whether new boss Mauricio Pochettino will still be in charge when he's ready to play.

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WHAT NEXT FOR PAEZ? He will continue playing his club football for Independiente del Valle and gaining valuable experience en route to the Premier League.

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