Real Madrid has reportedly made a definitive decision regarding midfielder Nico Paz, currently playing for Italian side Como. The Spanish giants have informed Como that they will not exercise the buy-back option clause during this summer`s transfer window.
Paz, a product of Real Madrid`s own esteemed youth academy, was transferred to Como, who recently achieved promotion to Serie A, ahead of the 2023-2024 season. As is common practice when promising youngsters depart, Real Madrid included a clause allowing them to repurchase the player. This summer, that option was priced at €8 million. Had Real Madrid waited until the summer of 2025, the fee would have increased slightly to €9 million.
During the recently concluded season with Como, the 20-year-old Argentine midfielder demonstrated considerable potential. He featured in 35 matches, scoring six goals and providing nine assists. His performances were instrumental in Como`s successful campaign and subsequent promotion, indicating positive development away from the pressures of the Santiago Bernabéu.
Interestingly, Paz`s solid season at Como has significantly boosted his perceived market value. According to estimates from the widely referenced portal Transfermarkt, his current market worth is around €35 million. This figure stands in stark contrast to the €8 million buy-back price Real Madrid could have activated this summer.
The decision not to bring him back, especially given the substantial difference between the buy-back fee and his current market valuation, might raise a few eyebrows. On the surface, it appears Real Madrid is passing up a potentially shrewd financial move. However, football transfer decisions are complex and involve more than just market price. Real Madrid possesses a deeply talented and competitive squad. The choice likely reflects an assessment that, despite his progress, Paz`s immediate pathway to significant first-team minutes in Madrid might be limited. Allowing him another season as a key player at Como, now competing in Italy`s top flight, could be seen as the best next step for his continued development, even if it means foregoing the immediate financial advantage.
For now, Nico Paz is set to remain with Como and test himself against Serie A opposition. Real Madrid retains the possibility of re-signing him in the future, albeit at a marginally higher cost. The €8 million buy-back button, for this summer at least, remains unpressed.
