Real Madrid sell Nico Paz to Como for €60m, retain €80m buy-back option

The player's choice

Nico Paz has chosen to stay at Como for another season rather than return to Real Madrid. The 21-year-old midfielder, currently with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, made the request himself after weeks of reflection and talks with Real Madrid coach José Mourinho, who could not guarantee him the playing time he wanted. His performances on loan in Italy, where he scored 19 goals and provided 7 assists in 75 appearances, convinced him that regular first-team football was more valuable than a squad role at the Bernabéu.

“After many weeks of reflection, I have decided that the best option for my career right now is to stay at Como for another year, the club that gave me the chance to grow and become the player I am today. I personally believe this is the best decision for both me and Real Madrid, as it is a very important year in this stage of my career.”

Financial terms

Real Madrid and Como formalised the permanent transfer on 29 June. According to Spanish press reports, the Lombardy club paid €60 million for Paz, with the sum to be settled in four annual instalments to ease the financial burden. In addition, Madrid have inserted a unilateral buy-back clause worth €80 million, which can be triggered in the 2027-28 season. The deal also gives Real Madrid a priority right to negotiate should Como decide to sell the player in the future.

Transfer fee paid by Como60

Buy-back option (2027-28)80

Transfer fee paid by Como

60 €M

Buy-back option (2027-28)

80 €M

Data from the article text

Sporting context

Paz’s development has been accelerated under Cesc Fàbregas, the Como head coach, and CEO Mirwan Suwarso was instrumental in the final hours of talks. The Italian side finished fourth in Serie A last season and will play in the Champions League for the first time in their history, a factor that Paz himself cited as crucial. His decision was also shaped by the opportunity to remain an undisputed starter and to gain more experience before a possible return to Madrid.

What’s next for Real Madrid

With the €60 million now in the accounts, Real Madrid are expected to use the funds to strengthen other areas. Early indications point towards Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández as the top summer target. Madrid retain full control over Paz’s future through the buy-back option, meaning they can bring him back for a net cost of €20 million if his upward trajectory continues.