Nico Paz's name is once again on everyone's lips. The young Argentine attacking midfielder left Real Madrid's youth academy to grow at Italian side Como. Now he has become one of the most sought-after footballers on the market.
His first season in Serie A sparked immediate interest from major European clubs. Tottenham didn't hesitate to go after him with a multi-million euro offer.
The €70 million ($75.6 million) figure on the table surprised many, considering Nico has only just taken his first steps at the top level. But Real Madrid, which kept 50% of his rights when selling him to Como, hasn't allowed the deal to move forward.
Real Madrid's plan with Nico Paz
When the club transferred him to Como, it kept a very favorable buy-back option: €9 million ($9.7 million) in 2025, €10 million ($10.8 million) in 2026, and €11 million ($11.9 million) in 2027. In addition, it secured half of any potential future transfer.
That strategy wasn't accidental. Real Madrid understood that Nico Paz needed minutes and responsibility that he wouldn't have at Bernabéu in the short term. In Italy, he has found the perfect setting to grow and show that he can be much more than a prospect.
The idea was always to wait for the right moment to bring him back. According to information from Fabrizio Romano, that moment has been set for the summer of 2026.
Tottenham's offer
Tottenham made a strong move after learning about Nico Paz's contract situation. With €70 million ($75.6 million) on the table, the English side tried to convince Como to part with its emerging star.
The deal, in principle, would have brought €35 million ($37.8 million) directly to Real Madrid thanks to that 50% of the rights.
However, at Bernabéu, they didn't even want to hear about the sale. The club's board blocked the move. They believe Nico must be a Real Madrid player and not strengthen another European giant.
Madrid's future new Modric
At the club's top management, they're clear: Nico Paz is destined to be Luka Modric's spiritual heir. His talent, vision, and ability to make a difference with the final pass make him a future leader for the midfield.
Modric is no longer at Real Madrid. The sporting management is looking for that attacking midfielder capable of continuing the style the Croatian represented for more than a decade. The chosen one is Nico Paz.
At 21, with an established present in Italy and a future in white, the Argentine knows his big opportunity will come soon. Real Madrid doesn't plan to let go of a player who can define an era.