Chelsea have reached an agreement to loan Deivid Washington to Santos.

Chelsea have finalized a deal to send young striker Deivid Washington on loan to his former club, Santos, for the 2025 season, according to The Athletic.

 

At just 18 years old, Washington will return to Brazil in search of more consistent first-team action. His move comes at an exciting time for Santos, as he will have the opportunity to play alongside Neymar, who recently made a highly anticipated return to the club. Neymar’s homecoming follows a mutual agreement to terminate his contract with Saudi side Al Hilal, allowing him to reunite with the team where his professional career began.

 

Washington was part of Brazil’s victorious squad in the Under-20 South American Championship last weekend but has struggled to secure playing time since joining Chelsea. The Blues signed him from Santos in August 2023 in a deal worth an initial €16 million (£13.3m), with an additional €4 million (£3.3m) in potential add-ons. However, his impact at Stamford Bridge has been minimal, with just three substitute appearances for the senior team.

 

Returning to Santos could provide the young forward with the game time he needs to develop his skills further. The Brazilian league season spans from March 29 to December 21, but Chelsea have included a recall clause, giving them the option to bring Washington back when the English summer transfer window opens. Unlike some loan deals, there is no purchase option, and Santos will cover his wages without paying an additional loan fee.

 

Chelsea’s decision to loan out Washington comes at a time when they are dealing with a shortage of strikers, as both Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu face extended periods on the sidelines due to injury.

 

Meanwhile, another rising star, Kendry Páez, has arrived at Chelsea’s training base. The highly rated Ecuadorian midfielder was signed from Independiente del Valle in 2023 but cannot officially join Chelsea until he turns 18 in May 2025. FIFA rules permit him to train with the club, though he is not yet eligible for competitive matches. Páez recently captained Ecuador in the Under-20 South American Championship and will stay in Europe to adjust to his new environment before his official transfer. Chelsea regard him as a key figure in their future plans and are eager to integrate him into the squad ahead of his full arrival.