Real Madrid Opt Against Nico Paz Return, Player to Stay at Como

Real Madrid decided not to use their buy-back option for Nico Paz this summer. This means the Argentine midfielder will stay at Como with coach Cesc Fàbregas for another season. The Spanish giants are now focusing on new signing Franco Mastantuono, who they signed from River Plate and is set to join after turning 18. They will wait until at least 2026 before making any move for Paz.

Real Madrid aims to strengthen their squad in the summer transfer window to regain the La Liga crown next season.

A previous report confirmed this plan.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid confirmed they won’t be bringing back Nico Paz from Como during this transfer window. The 20-year-old midfielder transferred from Madrid to the Serie A side last year for €6 million. He impressed with six goals and eight assists in 35 Serie A appearances in his first season under Fàbregas. Even though they had a €9 million buy-back option for this summer, Real Madrid have chosen to let the clause expire. They can still bring him back for €9 million in summer 2026 or €10 million in 2027 instead.

WHY DID REAL MADRID MAKE THIS DECISION?

With the arrival of highly-rated Argentine youngster Franco Mastantuono, Real Madrid changed their focus. Mastantuono, just 17 years old, is expected to be part of Xabi Alonso’s first squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

A previous report detailed Mastantuono’s versatility and technical advancement.

This reduced Paz’s priority in Madrid’s future plans. Paz reportedly wanted assurances of regular first-team football, having struggled for playing time during his previous stint at Madrid.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NICO PAZ AND THE CLUBS?

Nico Paz will remain with Como for the 2025/26 season, aiming to build on the club’s solid 10th-place finish on their return to Serie A last campaign. Under Cesc Fàbregas, Como hope to climb higher in the standings. Real Madrid, meanwhile, are preparing for the new season and their next match in the UEFA Super Cup against Juventus on July 1.

A previous report noted their recent FIFA Club World Cup successes.

They also look forward to the start of La Liga, where they finished second last term, with some distance behind Barcelona. The club will closely monitor Paz’s progress, knowing they retain purchase options for the coming years while integrating new signings into Xabi Alonso’s squad.