Ipswich Town is increasingly being mentioned as a potential landing spot for Chelsea’s young talent, Kendry Páez.
At the onset of the 2025/26 season, Kieran McKenna’s side was heavily backed as a top contender for promotion to the Premier League, given the abundance of quality within their squad. Despite these high expectations, the Tractor Boys faced a sluggish start, failing to secure a win in their first four league fixtures. While they showcased their potential in commanding victories such as the 5-0 triumph over Sheffield United, consistency emerged as the key hurdle impeding Ipswich’s dominance.
Gradually, the Suffolk-based team has shown improvement, emerging as strong contenders for the league title. After 25 matches, they sit eight points behind current leaders Coventry City, with a game in hand on the Sky Blues. As the winter transfer window unfolds, McKenna and his team are actively exploring market opportunities to gain an edge over their rivals in the latter part of the season.
Reports suggest that Ipswich Town could secure a deal for Kendry Páez, among various players linked to the club in the early stages of the transfer window. While Sheffield United’s Patrick Bamford was also mentioned in transfer rumors, the focus appears to be on bolstering creative options, potentially through the acquisition of Páez.
According to journalist Mustafa Karataş via X, the 18-year-old attacking midfielder may be loaned to Ipswich this winter. Páez, who spent the initial part of the season at RC Strasbourg, has seen limited playing time in Ligue 1, starting only four matches. The move to Ipswich could offer him a chance for more consistent appearances.
Chelsea secured Páez’s services in 2023 for a substantial fee when he was just 16 years old, yet he is yet to experience English football firsthand. While Páez undeniably possesses immense potential, his lack of recent playing time might necessitate a period of adjustment to the English game.
In the midst of a crucial promotion bid, McKenna faces the challenge of integrating Páez swiftly, considering the intense competition in the Championship. Although the prospect of signing Páez on loan is compelling, it may not align with Ipswich Town’s immediate priorities this winter.
