Real Madrid opt against Nico Paz buy-back option | OneFootball

Real Madrid have opted against triggering the buy-back option for Como midfielder Nico Paz (h/t Sky Sport Italia).

The Spanish giants can bring back the Argentine youngster for €8 million until July 15 and €9 million next year.

But Paz is not in Madrid’s plans following the acquisition of his compatriot Franco Mastantuono from River Plate.

New manager Xabi Alonso will rely on Mastantuono, Arda Guler and Brahim Diaz as the attacking midfield options.

The news will delight the Italian underdogs Como, who view the 20-year-old as an integral part of their project.

The La Albiceleste star had an excellent 2024/25 campaign in Serie A, helping Cesc Fabregas’ side punch above their weight.

He bagged six goals and nine assists and was named the best U-23 player of the league.

Como face the difficult task of keeping hold of Paz, who has attracted interest from Bayer Leverkusen and Inter Milan.

Leverkusen could cool off their pursuit, having secured an agreement for PSV Eindhoven star Malik Tillman.

Meanwhile, Inter have been monitoring Paz’s progress and view him as an ideal target to reinforce their midfield.

If Como are to sell the Argentine this summer, Madrid will pocket half of the transfer fee as part of the deal.

Inter could persuade Paz with the luxury of playing in the Champions League and competing for major trophies.

With Henrikh Mkhitaryan in his twilight and Hakan Calhanoglu linked with an exit, Paz can be a top signing for the Nerazzurri.

He can revitalise Inter’s midfield with his creativity, playmaking and scoring prowess.

Parma striker Ange Yoan-Bonny is set to become Inter’s third signing of the summer after Petar Sucic and Luis Henrique.