Real Madrid Lock in Their Premier 2026 Summer Target in Stunning Early Move—Report
Real Madrid have reportedly made the decision to activate their buy-back option for Como midfielder Nico Paz, bringing him back to the Santiago Bernabéu when the current campaign concludes.
The 21-year-old departed Madrid for Como during the 2024 summer transfer window after accumulating eight first-team appearances totaling 128 minutes of playing time. His temporary spell in Italy has allowed him to develop into one of the most promising young central midfielders on the global stage.
Recording 11 goals and 14 assists in 51 matches for Como, Paz has caught the eye of top European clubs, though Madrid anticipated this scenario by securing a buy-back provision in the transfer agreement.
Following Como's €6 million (£5.2 million, $7.1 million) acquisition of Paz, they consented to multiple clauses allowing Madrid to maintain influence over the player's career trajectory. While Los Blancos chose not to exercise a €10 million buy-back option last summer, reports from AS suggest they will utilize their contractual right to re-sign Paz for €9 million when this season ends.
Madrid are convinced that Paz is prepared to take the next step in his progression at an elevated level and have committed to securing the Argentina international's return to the Bernabéu, though this decision may not diminish ongoing transfer speculation.
European Giants Ready to Tempt Real Madrid with Instant Returns
Despite expectations that Paz will rejoin Madrid during the upcoming transfer window, several clubs have expressed their willingness to present substantial offers to the Spanish giants for his immediate signature.
Most of the Premier League's top teams have been linked with moves for Paz in deals reportedly valued as high as €80 million, though Madrid remain firm in their stance that the midfielder will not be sold this summer.
Although Paz will ultimately decide his own destiny, Madrid are confident there is room in Xabi Alonso's setup for the talented midfielder and acknowledge the exceptional ability he has demonstrated throughout his Italian experience.
Consequently, they plan to turn down all approaches from Paz's many admirers, forgoing the chance to secure massive financial gains with minimal investment next summer.
Those critical of Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso have pointed to insufficient creative output from the middle of the park, with Paz viewed as an economical answer to this issue—a €100 million talent available at a significantly reduced cost.
Paz himself is reportedly extremely eager to restart his Madrid journey, though rival clubs will certainly attempt to persuade him to consider alternative destinations before the 2026 summer transfer period concludes.