Chelsea have formally entered the race to sign one of European football's most exciting young talents, making an official approach for Como's attacking midfielder Nico Paz.
Blues Target Argentine Prodigy
The West London club have reportedly ‘officially enquired’ about the availability of the 21-year-old Argentine international, according to reports from Caught Offside. Recognising his immense potential, Chelsea believe his market value could soon skyrocket to an astonishing €100 million.
Paz has been in electrifying form since his move from Real Madrid to Como last summer. In Serie A, he has registered an impressive 23 goal contributions, finding the net 10 times himself. His current campaign is even more remarkable, with four goals and four assists in just 11 matches.
A versatile attacker, Paz operates primarily as an attacking midfielder but has also proven effective on the right wing and even as a false nine. His performances have earned him six senior caps for Argentina, and his market value on Transfermarkt currently stands at €55 million.
The Real Madrid Hurdle
The most significant obstacle for Chelsea, or any other suitor, is the formidable presence of Real Madrid. The Spanish giants inserted a series of buy-back clauses when they sold Paz to Como for just €6 million.
These clauses are considered exceptionally favourable for Real Madrid. The buy-back option is believed to be as low as €9 million in the summer of 2026, rising to just €10 million in 2027. Furthermore, Real Madrid hold first refusal on any sale, meaning they would need to sanction a departure for the 21-year-old.
This unique shared ownership structure leaves Como with limited power in any potential transfer negotiation. This was evidenced last summer when the Italian club rejected a substantial £61 million bid from Tottenham Hotspur.
A Crowded Transfer Battle
Chelsea are not alone in their admiration for Paz. The report also indicates that Arsenal have held an interest, and Serie A's Inter Milan are preparing a €58 million offer. Crucially, any such offer would be directed towards Real Madrid due to their controlling stake in the player's rights.
While it is unclear how Paz would currently fit into the star-studded lineup at the Bernabéu, persuading Real Madrid to relinquish their grip on such a promising asset for a marginal profit will be a monumental challenge for Chelsea.
Nevertheless, the Blues, under owner Todd Boehly, have built a reputation for securing top young talent and may be prepared to test the waters with a bid when the transfer window reopens in January. The future of Nico Paz is set to be a major transfer saga throughout 2026.
