Report: Chelsea go head-to-head with Real Madrid for 21 year old starlet | OneFootball

Chelsea Eye Nico Paz Transfer Battle with Real Madrid

Chelsea are again showing ambition in the transfer market, and this time their attention has turned to Nico Paz. As reported by Caught Offside, “Chelsea are expected to try beating Real Madrid to the transfer of Como attacking midfielder Nico Paz in an ambitious move.”

The 21-year-old Argentina international has impressed during his time in Serie A, showing technical craft and maturity that belie his age. With Real Madrid holding a buy-back clause, the expectation has long been that he would return to the Bernabeu. Yet Chelsea’s interest adds an unpredictable twist to what could become one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of next summer.

Rising profile of Nico Paz

Paz has grown into one of Como’s most prized assets. His vision, close control and ability to dictate play in the final third have marked him out as one of the brightest midfield prospects in European football. Como’s hierarchy are keen to protect their investment. They are reportedly working to offer him a new contract, a move designed to remove Real Madrid’s buy-back option and potentially drive up his market value.

That figure could reach as high as €80m, according to reports. For a club of Chelsea’s means, and given the ownership’s commitment to recruiting young talent, that price is unlikely to deter them. It fits the broader strategy of investing in players with both immediate impact and long-term resale potential.

Chelsea’s determination

Caught Offside reveal that Chelsea’s recruitment team have been encouraged enough to believe there is at least a chance of prising Paz away from Spanish control. One source was quoted: “Chelsea love Nico, Chelsea will push for sure. Real Madrid are confident, but Como will try to negotiate a new contract for him to remove the buy-back clause. They believe they could then sell him for as much as €80m.”

Picture:IMAGO

This determination is reflective of Chelsea’s approach in recent transfer windows, where the club has targeted high-potential stars across Europe. The message is clear, Chelsea want to remain at the front of the queue when the most coveted talents become available.

Real Madrid’s confidence

Despite Chelsea’s advances, Real Madrid remain confident of bringing Paz back to the Spanish capital. Their buy-back clause gives them a strong hand in negotiations, and there is a belief in Madrid that the player’s development will be best served under their guidance.

For Chelsea, this creates a significant obstacle. Unless Como can successfully tie him down to a new deal and remove Madrid’s advantage, the Blues may find themselves chasing a player who has already committed elsewhere.

Still, football’s transfer market thrives on uncertainty. As Caught Offside point out, “this looks like one to watch as CFC get serious about pursuing him.” Should Chelsea make a formal approach, other elite clubs are also likely to register interest, making Paz one of the most talked-about young names in the months to come.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Chelsea fans, the pursuit of Nico Paz symbolises the ambition of the new ownership group. Fans have been promised a future built on youthful talent, and Paz fits that brief perfectly. The idea of beating Real Madrid to such a player adds another layer of excitement, and would underline the club’s ability to compete with Europe’s most powerful institutions.

There is also a recognition among supporters that Chelsea need midfield creativity. Paz offers that, and at 21 he could become a cornerstone of the side for years to come. The price tag of €80m may seem steep, but with inflation in the transfer market, and the club’s desire to invest in long-term solutions, many fans would see it as money well spent.

That said, there is a realism among Chelsea followers. Madrid rarely let their brightest prospects escape, and with a buy-back clause already in place, the Spanish giants hold a clear advantage. If Como can indeed renegotiate and open the door for a higher sale, then the Blues must act decisively. For fans, the message is simple, ambition is welcome, but execution will be key.