Reports suggested Real Madrid were prepared to activate Nico Paz's €10 million buy-back clause from Como before immediately selling the Argentine for around €60 million after his outstanding Serie A campaign. However, that plan has now hit an unexpected obstacle.
Key Highlights
- Real Madrid cannot immediately resell Nico Paz after activating his buy-back clause due to the 12-week transfer regulation.
- José Mourinho faces a midfield selection headache, with Jude Bellingham, Bernardo Silva and potential target Enzo Fernandez competing for places.
- Paz prefers staying at Como, where Cesc Fabregas can offer him regular football and a key role in the club's ambitious project.
- Madrid still control Paz's future through a favourable buy-back clause, even if a lucrative sale must be postponed.
12-Week Rule Ends Immediate Sale Plan
According to journalist José Félix Díaz, Real Madrid cannot re-sign Paz this summer and immediately sell him for profit. Transfer regulations require a player registered during the summer window to remain with the club for at least 12 weeks before being eligible for another permanent transfer.
That means any potential sale would have to wait until the winter transfer window, effectively ruling out Madrid's reported plan to cash in during the current market.
Mourinho Faces Tough Midfield Decisions
The situation also creates a selection dilemma for José Mourinho, who already has a wealth of midfield talent at his disposal. With Jude Bellingham and new arrival Bernardo Silva among the options, competition for places is fierce.
Although Mourinho is believed to be assessing all returning loanees, he reportedly could not guarantee Paz the regular playing time the 21-year-old enjoyed under Cesc Fabregas at Como. Madrid's continued links with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez only make Paz's route into the starting XI even more challenging.
Como Still Offers the Best Platform
Despite interest from Premier League clubs, including long-time admirers Arsenal, Paz appears happy to continue his development in Italy. The Argentine has flourished under Cesc Fabregas, who reportedly sees him as a vital part of Como's plans as they prepare for what could be their first-ever Champions League campaign next season.
With guaranteed minutes and a familiar environment, remaining at Como—either through another loan or by staying put—currently looks more attractive than returning to Madrid without a clear first-team pathway.
Madrid Keep the Long-Term Advantage
Although the immediate resale option is off the table, Real Madrid remain in a strong position regarding Paz's future. The club continues to reshape its squad under Mourinho while also handling situations involving former academy players such as Victor Munoz, who is expected to pursue a permanent move to England instead of competing for a place in Madrid's crowded attack.
With Paz's buy-back clause set at €9 million this summer and potentially increasing to €10 million in 2027, Los Blancos still retain significant control over his future. The only difference is that any major transfer profit may now have to wait until January or beyond.
