Real Madrid buy back clause complicates Arsenal interest in Nico Paz
Arsenal's long running interest in Nico Paz could be undone by a contractual arrangement that still favours Real Madrid. The Como midfielder remains on the club's radar as one of Europe's most exciting young talents, but a buy back clause held by the Spanish giants threatens to derail any move.
Paz, who turned down the chance to return to Real Madrid in the summer after helping Como qualify for the Champions League, has continued to impress in Serie A and on the continental stage. He chose to stay in Italy rather than risk limited playing time back at the Bernabeu, and Como responded by investing heavily to keep him, reportedly paying around €60m to secure his services.
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Madrid's buy back advantage
According to Fichajes, Real Madrid retain an option to sign Paz back for €80m at the end of this season. That clause gives the Spanish club a clear edge over any other side chasing the 21 year old, including Arsenal.
Real Madrid had previously re-signed Paz for around €6m before his move to Como and reportedly pushed the Italian club to meet the required fee rather than lose him elsewhere. Como ultimately kept hold of him, but the buy back arrangement means his long term future is still tied to Madrid's intentions.
Arsenal face an uphill battle
Arsenal are understood to be monitoring Paz as part of their broader thinking around midfield reinforcements, drawn to his technical quality and the way he has developed in Italy. The Gunners would reportedly like to bring him to the Emirates, but their interest alone may not be sufficient to get a deal done.
Real Madrid's existing route back into a transfer gives them significant leverage, and the prospect of returning to one of the biggest clubs in world football could easily sway Paz's eventual decision. For Arsenal, convincing the midfielder that north London represents a better path than a return to the Bernabeu will not be straightforward.
Paz looks to be nearing a pivotal point in his career, with a step up to a bigger club becoming an increasingly realistic conversation. Arsenal's pursuit, for now, continues under the shadow of a buy back clause that keeps Real Madrid firmly in the driving seat heading into the coming transfer windows.
