Mauricio Pochettino makes first Chelsea signing as Blues snap up South American wonderkid

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Ecuadorian rising star Kendry Paez from Independiente del Valle.

The club announced the 16-year-old will join the Blues in two years’ time once he turns 18, having impressed for the Ecuadorian club.

The youngster has six senior appearances to his name this season and caught the eye of the European elite by finding the net on his senior debut for his club this year, becoming the youngest debutant and scorer in the Ecuadorian top flight.

Paez has also made his continental debut in a 2-1 Copa Libertadores win over Corinthians last month.

Chelsea have not confirmed the fee paid to secure the talented forward but a deal in the region of £18m has been reported by various outlets.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Ecuadorian starlet Kendry Paez, 16, who will move when he turns 18 

Mauricio Pochettino takes over on July 1 but he has already exerted his authority at the club

Paez becomes Mauricio Pochettino’s first signing at Chelsea as the Argentine prepares to officially begin his role as manager on July 1. Much of the attention surrounding the club has been on potential outgoings as the Argentine looks to trim the bloated squad.

First teamers Edouard Mendy, N’Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic and Kai Havertz have all been tipped to secure a move away this summer.

While Mason Mount is reported to be drawing close to signing with rivals Manchester United, despite Pochettino’s desire to keep him at the club.

The Blues have seen off competition from the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City