Arsenal are interested in signing Como star and former Real Madrid player Nico Paz
Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Como star Nico Paz, but could face a blow to their hopes of sealing the deal thanks to Real Madrid. The Gunners still have to wait until the January transfer window to sign any new players and have already been linked with a number of potential new additions to their squad.
Paz has been linked with a move away from Como for some time, including in the summer, but has remained at the Serie A club after an impressive campaign last term.
The 22-year-old playmaker scored 13 goals and provided eight assists in all competitions for Como last season, helping the Italian side qualify for the Champions League.
Como is currently managed by former Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas, who sees Paz as a key member of his squad.
Paz joined Como from Real Madrid in the summer of 2024 and, crucially, the La Liga giants have the chance to re-sign the Argentina international if they want to.
TEAMtalk reported that while Arsenal are interested in signing Paz, they face an uphill task in the race to sign the playmaker.
The report claims that Madrid included a buy-back clause in the deal that saw Paz move to Como two years ago, giving them an advantage over other clubs who may be interested.
It has been reported that a clause in the contract would allow Madrid to sign Paz for €80m (£67.9m), but this would only come into effect in the summer of 2027.
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According to various other reports, Madrid are expected to make a decision on whether to re-sign Paz.
Paz has made six appearances for Como so far this season and has a goal to his name in a 4-1 win over Genoa in Serie A last month.
Paz usually plays in an advanced midfield role for Como, but can also be equally effective on the right wing.
Arsenal have strengthened many areas of their squad over the summer, with defender Ezri Konsa, goalkeeper Illan Meslier, midfielder Bruno Guimaraes and winger Christos Tzolis all moving to the Emirates Stadium.
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