Chelsea are planning for the future by signing Ecuadorian midfielder Paez, 16, from Independiente del Valle subject to a medical exam and his agreement. The deal should go through later this week.

At 15-years-old, this Ecuadorian talent captured the world's elite clubs' notice when making his debut for Independiente at Ecuadorian premier league level and scoring his maiden goal - becoming both player and scorer! Since then he has made six senior appearances and impressed at U20 World Cup competition, where he scored one goal and assisted three others for South American team.

Rivas was an undoubted standout at the Next Generation Trophy last summer, taking home the most impressive player award and beating competition from teams like Manchester United and Bayern Munich. His real presence on the ball, his good passing skills, and superior technique were hallmarks of excellence for Rivas' praiseworthy performance at that tournament.

Chelsea have been filled with promising youngster since US owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali completed their takeover, including Omari Hutchinson from Arsenal; Zac Sturge from Brighton; Gabriel Slonina of Chicago Fire; Carney Chukwuemeka of Aston Villa and Malo Gusto of Lyon who are amongst their current crop of teenagers at Stamford Bridge. Paez would make for an excellent addition.

Paez will remain at Independiente until his 18th birthday and can join Chelsea from 2025 as soon as Mauricio Pochettino officially begins his role at Stamford Bridge - set for July 1.

Paez's development into a European star is uncertain given recent transfers, but his talent to become an impact player at the top level should flourish under his new coach and thrive under their guidance. If that occurs, then Paez could become one of the key teenagers under Chelsea's American ownership; otherwise he must make use of his time in Ecuador; otherwise success awaits soon enough! GOAL explores how Paez developed into such an incredible prodigy today.

Source: يلا لايف _ yalla live