With just a few more days left in this January transfer window, it looks like Chelsea won't be strengthening Liam Rosenior's squad despite there being so many links with centre-backs like Jeremy Jacquet, Marcos Senesi, Jacobo Ramon, Antonio Rudiger, and more. Of course, considering how poor the Blues' recruitment has been in recent times, that should not come as a surprise to fans.
There have been quite a few departures in recent weeks though. Raheem Sterling has parted ways by mutual consent, ending his contract 18 months early. Axel Disasi is said to be closing in on a move to West Ham United as well. Everton have been linked with an interest in Tyrique George after Jack Grealish's injury.
All of this was somewhat expected even coming into this winter window. What was not was the transfer saga involving Kendry Paez.
Paez has struggled to find his feet in Ligue 1 with Strasbourg. Of course, for most of his run there, he was managed by none other than Rosenior. So, there would not be much of a point in bringing him back and keeping him at Stamford Bridge. Most fans would have expected a move to a team in the bottom half of the Premier League or one of the top teams in the Championship. Instead, the Ecuadorian international is headed back to South America.
Paez is set to join River Plate in Argentina. As reported by FootballTransfers, Fabrizio Romano said:
"The Ecuadorian talent who was on loan at Strasbourg has been recalled by Chelsea. The idea with BlueCo is very clear. Kendy Paez returns to Chelsea and will go on loan to River Plate. It’s a here we go.
“It’s a straight loan deal for a season-long deal. It’s already been authorised by Kendry Paez, and Chelsea have told him he can travel for medical tests and signing. It’s the surprising deal of the day."
'Here we go' - Fabrizio Romano confirms unexpected Chelsea transfer
When Paez was first signed by Chelsea, he was considered to be a talent as good as, or even better than, Estevao. It would be safe to say things have gone very differently for them.
While Estevao has thrived in Chelsea colours, Paez has not even been able to make his mark on loan at Strasbourg. So, he needed a change of scenery.
Perhaps the move to Europa came a bit too early for him. So, heading to River Plate to gain some experience, while playing at a club where the expectations are high, is not a bad idea for someone like Paez.