Real Madrid is reportedly set to secure the return of highly-rated Argentine midfielder Nico Paz in the summer of 2026, marking a significant strategic move for the Spanish giants. Despite opting against exercising an €8 million buy-back clause for 2025, the club remains committed to integrating the talented playmaker, whose market value has soared during his impressive spell with Italian side Como. This anticipated acquisition underscores Real Madrid’s long-term vision for a player who has rapidly emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young talents.
Paz’s valuation has seen a dramatic increase, with Transfermarkt now estimating his market worth at a substantial €65 million. This places him among the most valuable players in Italy’s Serie A, ranking fifth behind established stars such as Lautaro Martínez, Alessandro Bastoni, Kenan Yildiz, and Rafael Leao. Within the current Real Madrid squad, his estimated value would position him as the ninth most valuable asset, highlighting the significant growth in his profile since his departure from the Spanish capital.
His remarkable progression is largely attributed to his time at Como, where he has thrived under the tutelage of former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fàbregas. Fàbregas, now head coach, has been instrumental in unlocking Paz’s potential, providing a supportive environment that has fostered his development. This mentorship has been crucial in refining Paz’s game and adapting his role on the pitch, allowing him to flourish away from the immediate pressures of a top-tier European club.
Under Fàbregas’s guidance, Paz has transitioned from a traditional right-winger to a more central, offensive midfield role. This tactical repositioning has significantly increased his involvement in play, allowing him greater contact with the ball and enhancing his overall influence on matches. The shift has proven highly successful, enabling Paz to dictate play, create opportunities, and contribute more directly to his team’s attacking output.
The impact of this positional change is evident in his impressive statistics for the current season. Across 16 appearances, Nico Paz has registered five goals and five assists, cementing his status as the league’s top assist provider and ranking fifth in the goal-scoring charts. These figures demonstrate his consistent ability to both score and create, underscoring his evolution into a potent attacking force capable of delivering tangible results on the pitch.
Paz’s potential return to Real Madrid will present both exciting prospects and significant challenges. He is expected to join a squad potentially undergoing profound structural changes, with a highly competitive midfield. The club’s future direction, particularly under a new coach like Xabi Alonso or another incoming manager, will heavily influence his immediate role and integration. He must contend with established talents and other emerging players vying for similar positions.
The attacking midfield position, where Paz now excels, is currently occupied by Jude Bellingham, a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s recent success. While Paz has demonstrated the quality to contribute, finding a harmonious tactical setup that accommodates both players without compromising team balance remains a key consideration. Previous attempts to integrate multiple attacking midfielders, as seen with Arda Güler this season, have highlighted potential complexities in maintaining squad equilibrium.
Despite these potential hurdles, Real Madrid’s persistent interest in Paz signals a clear belief in his long-term potential and suitability for the club’s future. His journey from the academy, through a successful loan spell, and back to the forefront of Real Madrid’s transfer plans, exemplifies a strategic approach to nurturing and re-acquiring top talent. The club views him as a player with the requisite skill and mentality to thrive at the highest level.
Ultimately, Nico Paz has unequivocally proven his capabilities and readiness for a prominent role within a top-tier European squad. His consistent performances, coupled with his enhanced tactical versatility and significant market appreciation, position him as a valuable asset. Real Madrid’s decision to pursue his return in 2026 reflects a calculated investment in a player who has not only met but exceeded expectations during his time away.
