Kids in Chelsea jerseys (the image is for illustrative purposes) (©Getty Images)
Kids in Chelsea jerseys (the image is for illustrative purposes) (©Getty Images)

13-year-old African wonderkid signs for Chelsea in record-breaking deal!

Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 25.06.25. | 19:30

What were you doing at 13? A 13-year-old boy from Africa just became the highest-paid player of his age group in the world by signing with Chelsea

Every now and then, a story emerges that captures hearts and ignites hope—and right now, one young footballer from South Africa has the whole nation beaming with pride.

Meet Camden Schaper, a 13-year-old prodigy from Benoni who has just signed a contract with Chelsea. Yes, that Chelsea—one of the giants of the Premier League, steeped in history and silverware. Reports suggest it wasn’t just the Blues with their eyes on him; Manchester City, United, Arsenal, and Liverpool were all reportedly in the race. But Chelsea moved first, sealing the deal for a fee close to 7 hundred euros to land the rising star.

Just take a moment to absorb that: a teenager from South Africa is now one of the highest-valued young footballers in the world.

Camden’s journey is more than just remarkable—it’s deeply motivating.

It all began on the dusty pitches of Benoni, where his love for the game burned brighter than most. He quickly made his mark at the SuperSport United academy, even captaining their under-11 side on an unbeaten run in Spain in 2021.

That tour lit the spark—scouts took notice, and offers followed. He spent time training with Sporting Lisbon, and even Manchester United brought him in at just eight years old. The only thing that briefly slowed him down was the pandemic. But even then, his ambition never wavered.

By 2023, his family made the bold decision to move to the UK so Camden could pursue his footballing dream. And it’s paid off—big time. With Blackburn Rovers, he’s been operating as an attacking midfielder, putting up absurd numbers: 45 goals and 65 assists in a single season.

He’s competing with players years older and standing out every step of the way. Proud parents are celebrating what’s possible when kids are truly supported. Coaches are digging up old clips. And fans? They’re just soaking it all in and cheering him on.

Camden’s rise is proof that greatness can grow in the most unexpected places. From community fields in Benoni to signing with one of Europe’s elite, he’s showing the world that South African talent is here—and ready—to shine.



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South AfricaChelseaCamden Sharper

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