Como Battles Real Madrid, Inter for Rising Star Nico Paz

COMO, Italy — Nico Paz, the 19-year-old Argentine-Spanish midfielder, has become the center of a high-stakes tug-of-war between Como, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan. Since joining Como last summer, Paz has delivered a standout performance, scoring four goals and providing four assists in 19 Serie A matches, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most promising young talents.

Como, managed by former Spanish star Cesc Fàbregas, is eager to secure Paz’s long-term future. The club has reportedly initiated talks with Real Madrid to remove buyback clauses in Paz’s contract, which currently allow Madrid to reacquire him for €9 million in 2025, with the fee increasing annually. Como is prepared to offer between €15 million and €20 million to eliminate these clauses, according to ‘Sky Sport.’

Real Madrid, which retains 50% of Paz’s rights and a first-refusal option, remains confident in the young midfielder’s potential. However, the Spanish giants face competition from Inter Milan, which is reportedly ‘crazy about the player,’ as per ‘La Gazzetta dello Sport.’ Inter believes Paz would struggle for playing time at Madrid, given the presence of stars like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Rodrygo. The Milan-based club is reportedly willing to include a higher buyback clause in any deal to entice Madrid.

Paz, born in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, joined Como from Real Madrid last summer for €6.3 million. His current contract runs until 2028, but the buyback clauses have made his future uncertain. Como’s efforts to renegotiate his deal reflect their desire to build around Paz and fellow rising star Assane Diao.

The situation has sparked a potential bidding war, with Inter Milan emerging as a serious contender. The club sees Paz as a future star who could thrive at San Siro, offering him a more prominent role than he might find at Madrid. As negotiations continue, the young midfielder’s future remains one of the most intriguing storylines in European football.