The Belgian side KV Mechelen contacted Chelsea in the summer regarding the Ecuadorian attacking midfielder Kendry Páez. KV Mechelen viewed the 19-year-old as a potential No 10 or a right-sided option. This interest occurred as Chelsea was seeking a new loan for the player after his spell at River Plate was terminated. Other clubs also showed interest, and Trabzonspor was monitoring his situation. Sources stated that Trabzonspor's pursuit was not as aggressive. Celtic, Blackburn Rovers, and Birmingham are also among the clubs that have been monitoring his availability. Chelsea is actively looking for a suitable January loan move that guarantees regular first-team football for Páez. Kendry Páez joined Chelsea in July 2025 and has 27 caps and two goals for Ecuador. His contract with the London club runs until 2033, and his current market value is €6.00M, according to Transfermarkt.