The countdown has begun. Real Madrid faces one of those decisions that, although they may seem minor, can have significant consequences for the club's future.
In less than 24 hours, the clause that allows Real Madrid to exercise a preferential option to keep Nico Paz, the gem of La Fábrica, for 8 million euros will expire. If Florentino Pérez doesn't make a move, the Argentine will head to his new club.
Nico Paz's talent slips away… unless Florentino acts now
Nico Paz is 19 years old, talented, bold, and has a deadly left foot. It's no coincidence that he has attracted the interest of several European clubs. Although he has had opportunities with the first team under Carlo Ancelotti, the final leap hasn't happened.
Now, Real Madrid has an 8 million euro clause ($8.6 million) to match an external offer. But it has to make it effective before midnight today.
The clause expires in a matter of hours and, so far, Florentino hasn't shown any signs of wanting to execute it. The clock is ticking.
His fate is sealed… if there is no last-minute reaction
Everything indicates that Nico Paz will become a new Bayer Leverkusen player, which sees him as Florian Wirtz's replacement. The German club, a specialist in developing young talent, has made a strong bet on him. In the absence of a counteroffer from Real Madrid, the signing will be finalized in the coming hours.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan has also shown interest in this young player who has made a splash at Como this year.
Florentino has the final say on the table. It's not an easy decision. Although the price is reasonable—8 million euros ($8.6 million)—the club has a squad full of young midfielders: Bellingham, Camavinga, Arda Güler, Valverde, Tchouaméni…
In addition, the arrival of the young Argentine prospect Franco Mastantuono is now expected. Another footballer who further blocks Nico Paz's path at Real Madrid.
Investing in yet another attacking midfielder could mean an unnecessary expense. But letting him go could also be a strategic mistake.
Nico Paz, another case like Achraf or Theo
Nico Paz's case dangerously recalls other controversial decisions in the past. Achraf Hakimi, sold to Dortmund, or Theo Hernández, transferred to Milan, have established themselves as major stars far from Bernabéu. Will history repeat itself with Nico?
Inside the club, there are voices that regret the lack of opportunities for academy players. Nico Paz has shown personality, scoring ability, and vision, but he hasn't managed to settle in.
His departure could be yet another example of a club that prioritizes multi-billion-euro signings over betting on what it already has at home.