Nico Paz to stay at Como after Real Madrid activates buy‑back, with future return option

Real Madrid exercised its buy‑back clause on Argentine midfielder Nico Paz for €9 million and immediately sold him to Serie A club Como for €60 million, while retaining an €80 million repurchase option for the next season and keeping 50 % of his economic rights. Paz, who impressed in his debut Serie A season and helped Como qualify for the Champions League for the first time, chose to remain in Italy for another year. His father and agent Pablo Paz confirmed that the decision was difficult because Real Madrid wanted him back, but the player is happy at Como, feels valued and believes another season in Italy will aid his development.

Paz also featured for Argentina in the World Cup 2026 group match against Jordan. The transfer arrangement leaves the door open for a future return to Madrid, should the buy‑back clause be exercised. Following the deal, Como have turned their attention to another Real Madrid academy prospect, 21‑year‑old César Palacios, indicating the club’s continued strategy of acquiring young Spanish talent.

The €60 million fee and the retained clauses highlight Real Madrid’s approach of securing promising players while allowing them to gain experience abroad.