Inter Milan have lined up Como midfielder Nico Paz as a long-term replacement for Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
This according to today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews. They report that the Nerazzurri see a similar trajectory for the 20-year-old to Luis Alberto at Lazio.
Paz has emerged as one of the real breakout talents in Serie A over the first half of the season.
Newly-promoted Como signed the Argentine from Real Madrid over the summer.
Reportedly Los Blancos have a buyback clause for €12 million, as well as a sell-on clause.
Paz has really shone. The Lariani’s investment in the 20-year-old has really paid off.
Paz has scored two goals and made three assists so far this season. Moreover, his overall play at the heart of midfield has been instrumental for Cesc Fabregas’s side.
Inter Line Up Nico Paz As Henrikh Mkhitaryan Replacement
Not surprisingly, Paz’s form has attracted the interest of bigger clubs.
There is always the matter of Real Madrid’s control over the Argentine’s future.
But according to Tuttosport, it could be Inter who end up signing Paz. They report that the Nerazzurri are foremost among the young midfider’s suitors.
At twenty years of age, Paz would certainly fall within Inter owners Oktree Capital’s remit to revitalize the squad with younger players.
And Inter see the Argentine as having the ideal profile to replace Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
The former Arsenal and Roma midfielder remains a vital component to Inter’s starting eleven. But he’ll be 36 at the end of the season, and Inter are aware of the need for a succession plan.
Tuttosport report that Inter see Paz as a similar profile to Luis Alberto at Lazio.
Alberto began life at the Biancocelesti as an attacking midfielder. However, Simone Inzaghi transformed him to much more of a box-to-box midfielder.
And Inter view Paz as a player with a similar style, who could make the same transition to become a starter in Inzaghi’s midfield trio.