Arsenal have identified Como’s Nico Paz as a target for 2027 and this ‘poses a problem’ for Real Madrid.
Como were offered around €70m by Tottenham a year ago, and that wasn’t enough even then. Now Arsenal want to push their London rivals aside.
That’s according to Bernabéu Digital, who make it clear it’s their own information about Arsenal.
Arsenal’s interest a concern for Real Madrid
The attacking midfielder is a product of the La Liga side’s academy and struggled to make room for himself in their first team.
Real Madrid sold 50% of his rights to Como in 2024. The Serie A side secured 100% of his rights in the summer by offering €66m to Los Blancos, who secured an €80m buyback clause.
That 50% Madrid share was one of the reason Tottenham were unsuccessful.
Nico Paz has starred for Cesc Fàbregas’ side, scoring 20 goals and contributing 17 assists from 78 matches.
His performances have caught the attention of several clubs, including Arsenal. They have identified him as a target for next summer.
Bernabéu Digital’s title reads: ‘The problem Arsenal’s interest in Nico Paz poses for Real Madrid’.
What issue Real Madrid can face
José Mourinho’s side are planning to activate the €80m clause next summer. This is only to sell him to Arsenal or another club for a higher price in the same window.
FIFA regulations stop a ‘bridge transfer’ within a period of less than 16 weeks. Therefore, Real Madrid won’t be able to buy Nico Paz and immediately sell him to make a profit.
One option for Los Blancos is to wait for at least 16 weeks and then sell the 22-year-old for a fee well over €80m. This seems unlikely in the same window.
To overcome FIFA regulations, Real Madrid could negotiate directly with Como and Arsenal to bypass the buyback clause. At this stage Tottenham aren’t in the mix.
The outlet states: ‘There would also be the possibility of negotiating directly with Como and Arsenal to obtain some form of compensation in exchange for not exercising their buyback right, depending, of course, on the exact terms set forth in the contracts. One option is to “sell” that buyback right to Arsenal for a higher amount.’
The 2026 summer window closed a week ago. It’s definitely too early to discuss what the Gunners or Real Madrid plan to do with the Argentina international in 2027.
