Como are preparing for their first ever foray into European competition and are planning a squad overhaul ahead of their Champions League campaign, according to reports in Italy. The club celebrated their Serie A success with an open-top bus parade through the city, marking a historic moment for the club.
Manager Cesc Fàbregas is expected to remain in charge, but will request assurances from the club’s ownership regarding squad depth. Fàbregas is reportedly keen to add players aged between 26 and 27 to balance a squad currently comprised of young players and those over 30. A key decision revolves around the future of Nico Paz, currently on loan from Real Madrid.
Real Madrid have a repurchase clause of €10 million for Paz, a fee considered low given his current market value. Como are hoping the lure of Champions League football will convince the Argentine midfielder to remain with the club, and Fàbregas is eager to see him feature in Europe.
Several other players’ futures are uncertain. Sergi Roberto and Alberto Moreno are both out of contract and may depart, while Diego Carlos is likely to return to Fenerbahce following his loan spell. Martin Baturina is attracting interest from across Europe, and Alvaro Morata’s permanent move from Milan is in doubt, with a potential move to Saudi Arabia being considered.
Como are keen to tie down key players Lucas da Cunha and Jean Butez to long-term contracts, with discussions underway to extend their deals until 2030. Youngster Jacobo Ramon, also on loan from Real Madrid with a repurchase clause, is expected to remain with the club for at least another season. The club have already secured the signing of Andres Cuenca from Barcelona’s academy, and are exploring further deals with both Spanish giants, including Victor Valdepenas and potentially Dani Carvajal. Como are also considering adding Italian players to their squad to meet UEFA squad requirements, with Pietro Comuzzo, Fabiano Parisi, and Fabio Rispoli all potential targets. Work continues on expanding the Stadio Como in preparation for European fixtures, with the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia as a potential alternative venue if renovations are not completed on time.
