Como plan to keep Nico Paz in January, even as Chelsea and other clubs show interest. The Argentine playmaker is vital to Cesc Fabregas in the club’s first Champions League season. His form has made him one of the most talked-about names in European football.
Why Como will not sell Nico Paz in January
Como have no plans to sell Paz this winter, as reported by the TEAMtalk. The club paid €60 million in June to buy him outright from Real Madrid. The Serie A side feels no need to cash in. Its wealthy owners also favour long-term planning over quick profits, which keeps the club calm.
Rival teams may need to bid more than €100 million just to start talks. That price would test even the richest sides in the Premier League, and few will pay it. Selling in mid-season would also leave Fabregas without his key creator in the Champions League. Como are unlikely to take that risk.
Paz’s 2026/27 stats for Como so far, as per FOTMOB:
Competiton Matches Goals Assists Chances created Defensive contributions Duels won(%)
Serie A 8 3 3 15 31 57.6%
Champions League 3 2 3 5 17 55.8%
Paz’s numbers and tactical value
Nico Paz scored 13 times and added eight assists in all competitions last season. That is 21 goals and assists in total. Como now build much of their play around him, and that is why the club guards him so closely.
Como beat Manchester United 4-1 on 21 October. Paz scored twice and set up a goal for Tasos Douvikas. His first came inside two minutes. He has now set up three Champions League goals, more than any other Como player. He became the youngest player to be directly involved in three goals in a Champions League game against United. UEFA technical observer Roberto Martinez said Paz rose to the size of the night.
Paz is dangerous because of where he finds the ball. He often drifts into the gaps between the other team’s midfield and back line. From there, he can pass or shoot quickly. That movement pulls defenders out of shape and gives space to the runners around him.
Cesc Fabregas wants Como to keep the ball, which gives Paz time to pick his pass between the lines. That mix of vision and movement is hard to replace. A rigid system could limit his freedom, so any buyer would need a role that fits his style.
Chelsea, Xabi Alonso and the Real Madrid factor
Chelsea have been tracking Paz, and manager Xabi Alonso is said to be a big fan. Alonso took charge at Stamford Bridge in July. Arsenal and Manchester United have also shown interest, so the race among Premier League clubs is crowded. A creative player who finds pockets of space would suit Alonso, and Paz fits that.
Real Madrid can bring Paz back for €80 million in summer 2027 under a buy-back clause. That gives them first claim on the player. Any buyer would have to deal with both Como and Real Madrid, not just one club.
January makes little sense for Chelsea or anyone else chasing him. A new signing would arrive mid-season and need to adapt fast. Waiting until the summer looks the better route for every club. A few more months of strong form should push his value even higher. For now, the decision rests with Como.
Read More: Moises Caicedo faces fresh Chelsea concern ahead of comeback
Also Read: Emiliano Martinez: Chelsea learn when injured keeper could return