Chelsea Signs 13-Year-Old Prodigy Camden Schaper in Record Deal

by Lwandiso Simanga

Chelsea have secured the signature of 13-year-old Camden Schaper, a highly rated young talent, in a record-breaking youth deal reportedly worth R17 million, according to The Sun UK. Though the club has not officially confirmed the signing, this is standard practice with youth transfers.

Originally from Benoni, South Africa, Schaper began his football journey at SuperSport United, making waves during the club’s U-11 tour of Spain in 2021. He later moved to England and joined Blackburn Rovers U-14s, where he delivered an astonishing 45 goals and 65 assists in the 2024/25 season.

image: Camden Schaper on Instagram

His performances caught the eye of major Premier League clubs including Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United. Ultimately, Chelsea won the race for the attacking midfielder, who is reportedly named after Spanish legend Cesc Fabregas.

Last year, Schaper also signed a sponsorship deal with Adidas, expressing his gratitude on Instagram, where he boasts over 11,000 followers. His rise marks him as one of Africa’s brightest young prospects.