Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Nico Paz Complicated as Player Prefers to Stay at Como

Real Madrid’s efforts to sign Como midfielder Nico Paz have hit a snag, according to recent reports. The club recently appointed Jose Mourinho as their new head coach following Florentino Perez’s re-election as president.

Mourinho has been active in the transfer market, with around £52 million spent on Spain left-back Marc Cucurella from Chelsea. Additionally, right-back Denzel Dumfries is expected to join from Inter Milan, and center-back Ibrahima Konate has reportedly agreed to a free transfer once his contract with Liverpool expires.

As Real Madrid quickly enhances their defensive lineup for the upcoming season, they are also looking to strengthen their midfield and attacking options, aiming to avoid a third consecutive season without silverware.

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Como Optimistic About Retaining Nico Paz

Recent reports indicate that Mourinho has made Paz his primary summer transfer target, hoping to bring the Real Madrid academy product back to the Spanish capital. Real Madrid sold Paz to Como for approximately €6 million in August 2024 and holds a buy-back option of €9 million (£7.7 million) this summer or €10 million (£8.6 million) next year.

However, according to Sky Sports in Italy, Como is becoming increasingly confident about retaining the 21-year-old midfielder for at least another season.

The report suggests that Paz desires to remain at Como for the 2026-27 season, focusing on his development under head coach Cesc Fabregas. Tottenham Hotspur has also shown interest in him, but he prefers staying in Italy with Como.

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Paz Emerges as Key Player for Como

Since joining Como, Paz has emerged as one of Serie A’s most promising talents and is considered a vital part of Fabregas’s squad. He was named Serie A Rising Star for the 2024-25 season and featured in the Team of the Season after scoring six goals and providing nine assists in 35 appearances.

Paz continued his impressive form into the 2025-26 season, netting 12 goals and assisting seven times in another 35 matches, contributing significantly to Como’s fourth-place finish and their first-ever qualification for the Champions League.

The Serie A Midfielder of the Season is currently on international duty with Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions. He will be aiming for his 10th cap during their opening Group J match against Algeria on Tuesday at the 2026 tournament.