Arsenal are targeting a 2027 move for Como's 22-year-old attacking midfielder Nico Paz, though any potential pursuit is heavily complicated by Real Madrid's exclusive €80 million (£69 million) buy-back option. According to reports in Spain from Bernabéu Digital, later corroborated by Sports Mole and FootballTransfers, the Premier League side are monitoring the playmaker. However, the unique structure of his contract makes a direct transfer highly complex.
The regulatory hurdle and Real Madrid's control
Real Madrid negotiated a revised agreement with Como in June 2026, securing the player's short-term future in Italy while inserting the €80 million buy-back clause, which becomes active in the summer of 2027. Under FIFA regulations, Madrid cannot simply trigger this clause and immediately sell Paz to Arsenal for a profit within a 16-week window. Such a transaction is classified as an illegal bridge transfer. Consequently, if Arsenal want to bypass this delay, they would need to negotiate a complex compensation agreement involving both Como—where the midfielder is under contract until 2028—and the Spanish giants to nullify the buy-back option before any direct transfer can materialize. This regulatory hurdle means any transfer next summer will require significant legal and financial maneuvering.
Paz's development and Arsenal's depth
The Argentine playmaker has enjoyed a rapid rise in Italy under the guidance of Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas. Paz was named Serie A Young Player of the Year after registering 19 goals and 17 assists over two seasons, helping the club secure a fourth-place finish and Champions League football. Paz recently addressed his future, stating: "I have decided that the best option for my career at this time is to stay at the club for another year. I personally believe this is the best decision for both me and Real Madrid." While Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta already has Martin Ødegaard and Eberechi Eze in creative roles, Paz's upcoming Champions League performances against Europe's elite will serve as the ultimate test of his €80 million pedigree.
