Cesc Fabregas, manager of Como, has firmly dismissed the possibility of midfielder Nico Paz joining Inter, despite reported interest from the Nerazzurri. The statement came in response to comments made by Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti, who expressed his admiration for Paz and suggested Inter still held hope of securing his signature.
Zanetti, speaking on Argentinian radio station DSports Radio, highlighted Paz’s potential and acknowledged the player is expected to return to parent club Real Madrid. He added, however, that Inter would remain hopeful of a future transfer. These comments prompted a strong reaction from Fabregas, who accused Zanetti of overstepping boundaries.
Fabregas emphasized that Como co-owns Paz, holding a 50% stake, and that Real Madrid is the only club with authority to decide the player's future. He criticized Zanetti for not representing either Como or Real Madrid, and urged respect for both clubs. Fabregas stated definitively that Paz will either return to Real Madrid or remain at Como next season, ruling out a move to Inter.
Inter are reportedly prepared to offer around €60-70 million to Real Madrid should they make Paz available after a potential €10 million buyback clause is triggered. However, the situation is further complicated by the potential for Jose Mourinho, the incoming Real Madrid manager, to integrate Paz into his first-team plans. Como’s financial strength also presents a challenge to Inter, as they could potentially outbid any offer for the young Argentinian.
Paz has impressed in Serie A this season, recently being named the league’s best midfielder by Lega Calcio. The 19-year-old spent the season on loan at Como from Real Madrid, quickly becoming a key player for the club. His performances have attracted attention from several top European clubs, but Fabregas’s comments appear to have ended Inter’s pursuit.
