Independiente del Valle sporting director Santiago Morales has no problem addressing transfer speculation when it comes to their players. The transfer window has yet to open but he’s offered clarity over Kendry Paez’s future.
Morales not only confirms that Paez will soon move to Chelsea, but also revealed that Manchester United — among other European clubs — made attempts to sign the Ecuadorian midfielder.
“Now comes the legal issue,” Morales told El Canal Del Futbol (H/t ESPN and Sport Witness). “We can’t sign a contract because of Kendry’s age. The panorama has been clarifying in a better way, today I can say that Kendra, after two years, will go to Chelsea.
“We received some offers for him – Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United and, well, Chelsea have been the team that showed the most interest. Officials from the team and the doctor came to carry out some tests.”
The quotes were also relayed by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano on Twitter:
Independiente director: “Today, I can say that Kendry Páez will be Chelsea player in 2025”. 🔵🇪🇨 #CFC
“We received bids from Man United and Borussia Dortmund but Chelsea showed super interest”, told @ElCanalDFutbol.
Kendry Páez deal, done and sealed as reported weeks ago. pic.twitter.com/o2PqMtj3N1
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 18, 2023
Paez only turned 16 this month, which means he has to wait until 2025 to complete the move to Chelsea. United could try to push the boat out and jump ahead of Chelsea (we’ve got at least two years to try), but Morales gives the impression that Independiente del Valle are already satisfied with what has been offered by the London club.
Although United look set to miss out on signing Paez, it is encouraging to hear that the club are closely monitoring the South American market.
We know from Erik ten Hag’s time at Ajax that he rates the South American market highly.
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