Inter Never Got Too Close to Acquiring Como Superstar | OneFootball

Inter tried to pull off the challenging acquisition of Nico Paz last summer, exploiting the relationship between his father and their deputy president and legend Javier Zanetti, but they never had much of a chance despite their intense interest, Fabrizio Romano reports (via FCInter1908).

The Nerazzurri have been attempting to insert themselves into the negotiations between Como and Real Madrid for a few windows, but their plans went quickly pear-shaped again. Les Merengues believed the ‘trequartista’ would finally return last summer. However, he insisted on staying put to play in the UEFA Champions League. A chat with new coach José Mourinho further convinced him it was the best course of action.

Inter inquired, but Nico Paz made it known that he wanted to continue at Como for at least another season. There was never a concrete offer from the reigning Serie A champions. Talks between the Biancoblù and Real Madrid took time, but the player eventually got his wish granted.

Los Galácticos indeed exercised their €9M clause as expected. However, the Lariani then made a splash to acquire him again, shelling out €60M. The new agreement allows the Spanish giants to bring him back for €80M next year.

Our Take on Inter and Nico Paz

It’s hard to imagine they’ll have a shot until Como are in the picture. His return to Madrid will be far from assured at the end of the campaign, as it’ll be a lot pricier than in the past. They and other contenders, especially the deep-pocketed Premier League sides, could get in the mix if he somehow flamed out or didn’t play enough for Les Merengues, but such a possibility has gotten continuously delayed each summer.