Chelsea, Arsenal, and Inter Milan in Tug-of-War for Rising Star Nico Paz — Real Madrid Hold the Key
As the winter transfer window approaches, Europe’s biggest clubs are already maneuvering for position in what’s shaping up to be one of the season’s most intriguing transfer sagas — the race to sign Argentine sensation Nico Paz, the breakout star currently dazzling Serie A with Como.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, once a product of Real Madrid’s academy, has become one of the most coveted young talents in Europe. This season alone, Paz has notched four goals and four assists, catching the attention of scouts across the continent.
Chelsea Make Their Move
According to sources close to the agents’ network, Chelsea have made an official inquiry regarding Paz’s availability, recognizing his meteoric rise and the potential for his market value to soar beyond €100 million in the near future.
However, any deal for the Argentine playmaker won’t be straightforward — Real Madrid still hold significant control over his future.
Madrid’s Crucial Buy-Back and Sell-On Clauses
When Los Blancos allowed Paz to leave for Como, they inserted buy-back clauses of €9 million in 2026 and €10 million in 2027, as well as a 50% sell-on clause, giving them substantial leverage in any future transfer negotiations.
That means even if Chelsea or another suitor were to reach an agreement with Como, Real Madrid’s involvement would be mandatory to finalize any potential move.
Inter Milan Enter the Race
Meanwhile, Inter Milan have emerged as serious contenders. Reports in Italy suggest the Nerazzurri are preparing a €58 million offer, which would be paid to Real Madrid to acquire full ownership rights to the player.
Given Madrid’s partial stake, any transaction would require coordination between all three parties — Como, Real Madrid, and the buying club — making this one of the most complex transfer pursuits of the window.
Premier League Rivals Circle
Chelsea aren’t alone in the hunt. Both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring the situation closely. Spurs are believed to have had an initial approach rejected, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are reportedly trying to convince Paz that a Premier League switch could be the ideal next step in his career, rather than a return to Madrid.
Future Superstar in the Making
With every performance, Nico Paz’s value continues to rise. The young Argentine’s creativity, vision, and composure on the ball have made him one of the hottest prospects in Europe.
But with Real Madrid’s buy-back options complicating the picture — and interest intensifying from clubs across England and Italy — this transfer saga promises to be one of the defining stories of the upcoming window.
