Como Insist Nico Paz Is Their Player Despite Real Madrid Buy-Back Option
Como sporting director Carlalberto Ludi has moved to calm speculation over Nico Paz’s future, insisting the Argentine midfielder is “100%” a Como player. His comments underline the club’s confidence in its prized young talent, even though Real Madrid retain the contractual right to bring him back in a future transfer window.
Paz has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in European football. His performances have attracted attention from major clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal, while his former club Real Madrid continue to hold a route to re-sign him. For now, however, Como’s message is clear: the 21-year-old remains central to their plans.
Nico Paz’s Form Puts Him in the Spotlight
The midfielder’s influence has grown as Como have made an impressive impact in Europe. Paz has recorded three goals and five assists in four Champions League appearances, establishing himself as one of the competition’s most productive young players this season. His ability to create chances, arrive in scoring positions and dictate the tempo has made him a vital part of the Italian side’s attack.
His standout display came in Como’s remarkable 4-1 victory over Manchester United. Paz scored twice and provided an assist, helping deliver a result that will be remembered as a landmark moment for the club. The performance also offered a compelling example of why elite teams are monitoring his progress: he was decisive against a high-profile opponent while showing the composure and creativity expected of a player with considerable potential.
That form has naturally prompted transfer speculation. Premier League clubs are understood to be watching closely, but interest does not necessarily mean a move is imminent. Como have invested heavily in Paz and can point to his role in their sporting project as evidence that he is more than a short-term asset.
What Real Madrid’s Buy-Back Clause Means
Real Madrid’s position is an important part of the story. The Spanish club activated a buy-back clause in Paz’s contract last summer, before he returned to Como in a permanent deal reportedly worth around €60 million. The new agreement includes another buy-back option for Madrid, estimated at approximately €80 million and understood to be valid in the summer of 2027.
Such clauses allow a selling club to retain a potential path back to a player after a transfer. They can provide the buying club with greater certainty over the player’s immediate future while giving the former club an opportunity to reassess his development later. In Paz’s case, the option means Real Madrid could make a decision in 2027, but it does not change the fact that he currently belongs to Como.
Ludi described the arrangement as part of an excellent deal for the Italian club. He stressed that Madrid’s right is limited by a specific date and transfer window, rather than representing an ongoing claim over the player. Until that option is exercised, Como can continue to select Paz, develop his role and plan around his contribution.
Ludi Pushes Back Against Recurring Transfer Rumours
Speaking to TuttoMercato, Ludi said he understood how repeated reports could affect Como supporters. He noted that speculation tends to resurface at regular intervals, with stories suggesting Real Madrid are preparing to bring players back to Spain. This season, he said, the discussion has included defender Jacobo Ramón, while Paz is likely to remain a topic over the next two years.
Rather than treating the rumours as a sign of an imminent departure, Ludi framed them as a familiar feature of the transfer news cycle. High-profile clubs are often linked with talented players, particularly when those players perform well in European competition. The challenge for Como is to keep the focus on football and ensure that outside speculation does not distract from the team’s objectives.
Ludi also emphasised the constructive relationship between Como and Real Madrid. If Madrid eventually exercise their option, he said, the transfer would reward Como’s work and bring substantial financial benefit to the club. He added that Como would manage any future developments as they have handled previous situations, while continuing to value their relationship with the Spanish side.
Why Como’s Position Matters
For Como, retaining Paz is about more than keeping a talented midfielder on the pitch. His performances have helped raise the club’s profile, strengthen its attacking identity and give supporters a player capable of changing a match. A successful run in Europe can also bring broader benefits, including increased visibility, stronger commercial interest and greater confidence in the club’s recruitment strategy.
The reported fee and buy-back terms also reflect a wider trend in modern football: young players can move between clubs through complex agreements that balance immediate opportunity with long-term control. Como’s deal gives the club the chance to benefit from Paz’s development now, while Madrid preserve a possible future return. The arrangement may ultimately suit both sides, though its value will depend on the player’s progress and the choices made in 2027.
Prediction: Paz’s Future Will Remain a Major Talking Point
Based on his current form, transfer speculation around Paz is unlikely to disappear. His Champions League output, match-winning performance against Manchester United and age make him an obvious target for clubs seeking a creative, technically gifted midfielder. Interest from the Premier League may intensify if he continues producing goals and assists against strong opposition.
Still, there is little reason to assume that a move will happen immediately. Como have made their position public, Paz is under contract, and Real Madrid’s reported buy-back option is tied to a future window. The most sensible prediction is that Como will continue to build around him in the short term, while Madrid and other potential suitors monitor his development.
For supporters, the key message is straightforward: Nico Paz is a Como player today. His future may eventually involve another major decision, but the club intends to enjoy his talent and make the most of his contribution while he is in Italy. As Ludi’s comments suggest, any eventual departure would be viewed not simply as a loss, but as recognition of the work Como have done to help a remarkable football talent flourish.
