Arsenal have been linked with a move for Como star and former Real Madrid playmaker Nico Paz
Nico Paz of Como
Nico Paz of Como has been linked with a move to Arsenal(Image: Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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Arsenal reportedly have an interest in signing Como star Nico Paz, but could face a blow to their hopes of getting a deal over the line thanks to Real Madrid. The Gunners still have to wait until the January transfer window to be able to sign new players, and yet are already being linked with a host of potential new additions to their squad.
Paz has been linked with a move away from Como for some time, including in the summer, but went on to remain with the Serie A club after an impressive campaign last term.
The 22-year-old playmaker scored 13 goals and provided eight assists across all competitions for Como last season, and helped the Italian outfit qualify for the Champions League.
Como are currently managed by former Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas, who sees Paz as a key member of his squad.
Paz joined Como in the summer of 2024 from Real Madrid, and crucially, the La Liga giants appear to have the chance to re-sign the Argentina international should they wish to do so.
TEAMtalk have reported that even though Arsenal have an interest in signing Paz, they face an uphill task in the battle to sign the playmaker.
The report claims that Madrid placed a buy-back clause inserted into the deal that saw Paz move to Como two years ago, and one which gives them an advantage over other clubs who may have an interest.
It has been reported that the clause in the contract would allow Madrid to sign Paz for €80million (£67.9million), but it will only come into effect in the summer of 2027.
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Various other reports have claimed that Madrid are expected to make a decision on whether or not to re-sign Paz in the months ahead.
So far this season, Paz has made six appearances for Como and has one goal to his name, which came in a 4-1 win over Genoa in Serie A last month.
Paz typically plays in an advanced midfield role for Como, but is also capable of performing on the right wing just as effectively.
Arsenal strengthened multiple areas of their squad in the summer, with defender Ezri Konsa, goalkeeper Illan Meslier, midfielder Bruno Guimaraes and winger Christos Tzolis all moving to the Emirates Stadium.