Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has informed Como that the club must pay €60 million to secure Nico Paz on a permanent deal, effectively preventing the player’s return to the Spanish capital. The situation has shifted in recent days, with Paz, 21, expressing a preference to remain with Como rather than compete for playing time at the Bernabeu.
Paz has been a key figure for Como since joining in 2024, scoring 18 Serie A goals and providing 14 assists over two seasons, helping the club qualify for the Champions League for the first time in its history. Initially, it was widely anticipated that Real Madrid would trigger a €6 million buy-back clause included in Paz’s original transfer agreement.
However, according to reports from Di Marzio, Mourinho has given the green light for Paz to depart, respecting the player’s desire for consistent first-team football. Real Madrid are now insisting that Como must purchase Paz outright, ruling out any further loan arrangements. While Como currently holds Paz’s registration, Real Madrid retain significant control over his future due to the terms of the initial transfer.
Los Blancos initially sold Paz to Como for a fee below his market value, but retained a €10 million buyback option, valid until June 30th. Corriere dello Sport reports that Madrid are seeking to capitalize on Paz’s increased value, demanding a fee that would represent a substantial profit. Paz’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at €64.5 million, positioning him as the fifth-most valuable player in Serie A.
The requested €60 million fee effectively asks Como to cover the difference between the original sale price and Paz’s current valuation. The deal’s complex structure heavily favored Real Madrid, and the club appears poised to benefit financially, even if Mourinho has no plans to integrate Paz into his squad. Paz is currently focused on Argentina’s World Cup campaign, while his representatives explore options to facilitate a continued stay at Como, a fee the club currently cannot afford.
