Premier League champions express interest in signing Real Madrid-bound midfielder – report | OneFootball

Nico Paz was initially rumoured as Real Madrid’s first signing of the summer with the club eyeing him as a solution to their midfield instability.

Having spent two years under Cesc Fabregas in Italy, the player was also open to a move back home provided he was guaranteed an important role in the side.

Los Blancos initially appeared set to promise the player what he demanded, but the arrival of Bernardo Silva and a change in mind of the new manager Jose Mourinho turned the tables.

The Portuguese coach spoke to the player and informed him that regular minutes cannot be promised, and Paz began drifting away from Real Madrid once more.

UCL finalists want Paz

Arsenal are interested in Nico Paz. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

As matters stand, Real Madrid will not sign Paz back this summer, nor does the player wish to return if he is not assured a starting role.

Rodra now reports that the Argentine star has a new suitor at his doorstep – Arsenal. The UEFA Champions League finalists have shown interest in signing the player this summer, and there is no doubt that the offer will not be something the player overlooks.

Concurrently, however, the Spanish journalist reiterates that Paz is not carried away by the approach and lives working under Fabregas. He is thus likely to stay at Como for another year.

A risky situation

Real Madrid currently have a buyback clause on Paz, which they have been banking on cashing in on this summer to bring him back on a budget-friendly deal.

Nico Paz might not return to Real Madrid. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

They have a similar clause for next summer as well and can sign him back for a fee marginally higher than this summer’s clause. That, however, will only stay in place if the player remains in Como.

Given the Argentine star’s progression and development in recent years, Real Madrid postponing his return by one season may thus be a gamble.

After all, the player may not hold off on offers from elite clubs forever this summer, and Los Blancos have already made it clear that they cannot guarantee him minutes.

Last season, Paz made 35 league appearances for Como and had twelve goals and six assists to his name. He also averaged 1.5 key passes per game and an 83% pass completion rate.