Como Block January Sale of Nico Paz Amid Arsenal and Chelsea Interest

Como have no intention of selling Nico Paz in January, despite interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is central to Cesc Fàbregas's plans, and the Serie A club view him as indispensable as they compete in the Champions League for the first time.

  • Player: Nico Paz, 22-year-old attacking midfielder
  • Clubs interested: Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United
  • Como's stance: No January sale; Paz not for sale in the short term
  • Permanent fee paid: €60million (£50.3m) to Real Madrid in 2025
  • Real Madrid buy-back: €80million (£67.1m) active summer 2027
  • Potential asking price: €100million-plus (£83.9m) from outside suitors

Deal details

Paz arrived at Como from Real Madrid in 2024 on an initial deal, and after a 2025/26 campaign that delivered 13 goals and eight assists in all competitions, Como moved to make the transfer permanent for €60million (£50.3m). That outlay already looks justified.

Despite mounting interest, TeamTalk reports that Como have no intention of sanctioning a January sale. The club's position is firm, and it centres on one of Europe's fastest-rising attacking midfielders. Chelsea have tracked him closely, while Arsenal and United are also credited with strong interest.

Real Madrid still hold significant leverage through a buy-back clause worth €80million (£67.1m), active in the summer of 2027. Additionally, sources have suggested Como could demand €100million-plus (£83.9m) from outside suitors, placing any deal in premium territory.

Como's stance on Nico Paz

Internally, Paz is regarded as central to the project. TeamTalk explains that Como view Paz as indispensable to their ambitions, particularly as they compete in the Champions League for the first time in their history. That context underlines their refusal to entertain winter approaches.

The report adds that club sources have repeatedly emphasised that the player is not for sale in the short term. Fàbregas also values stability in his attacking structure. Paz has settled well, developed quickly and appears happy with the responsibility placed on him in Italy.

Why Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are interested

Paz's recent Champions League performance against Manchester United, when he registered two goals and an assist, has intensified the spotlight. Chelsea's admiration is long-standing, Arsenal's interest is noted, and United are also credited with strong interest.

However, the contractual protection strengthens Como's hand and makes a January breakthrough highly unlikely. Until then, Como are expected to hold firm and protect one of their most valuable assets. In practical terms, this feels like a story that will build towards the summer rather than one resolved in the next window.

The numbers

  • Age: 22
  • 2025/26 goals: 13
  • 2025/26 assists: 8
  • Permanent fee: €60million (£50.3m)
  • Real Madrid buy-back clause: €80million (£67.1m), active summer 2027
  • Potential asking price from outside suitors: €100million-plus (£83.9m)
  • Champions League performance vs Manchester United: 2 goals, 1 assist

What was said

"Como have no intention of selling Nico Paz in January"

— TeamTalk

"Como view Paz as indispensable to their ambitions, particularly as they compete in the Champions League for the first time in their history."

— TeamTalk

"Club sources have repeatedly emphasised that the player is not for sale in the short term"

— TeamTalk

"Sources have even suggested Como could demand €100million-plus from outside suitors"

— TeamTalk

"Until then, Como are expected to hold firm and protect one of their most valuable assets."

— TeamTalk

"there is no way they will sell the star in January, hands off."

— TeamTalk

These quotes paint a clear picture: Como are under no pressure to sell mid-season, especially with Champions League commitments and a manager who values stability. The buy-back clause adds another layer, giving Real Madrid a potential route to re-sign Paz in 2027.

Why Arsenal and Chelsea will have to wait until summer

The timing of any move is crucial. January always felt difficult once Como made Paz's transfer permanent and built their attacking structure around him. If they are competing in the Champions League and treating him as a cornerstone, there was never much reason for them to weaken mid-season.

The more intriguing angle is whether the summer becomes a genuine opening. If the price climbs towards €100million (£83.9m), any move becomes a major strategic decision rather than an opportunistic signing. Arsenal would need to be completely convinced that Paz is not only talented but the right fit for the structure, the pressing demands and the creative burden in big matches.

There is also the Real Madrid element hanging over everything. A buy-back clause always changes the mood of a chase because it can leave other clubs doing the groundwork only for Madrid to step in at the perfect moment. Even so, this is one to watch closely. If an elite creator with upward momentum becomes available, it is hard not to be interested.

Talking points

  • Should Arsenal prioritise a creative midfielder over a striker this summer, given Paz's profile and the likely €100m fee?
  • Is Chelsea's long-standing interest genuine or just another example of the club stockpiling talent?
  • How much does the Real Madrid buy-back clause devalue any offer from Premier League clubs?
  • Could Paz's Champions League display against Manchester United be a one-off or a sign of consistent big-game pedigree?

What happens next

Como will hold firm in January, with Paz expected to remain in Serie A until at least the summer. Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United will monitor his progress, but any formal approach is likely to come after the season ends. The summer transfer window may define the next step, especially if Paz maintains his current level. The €80m buy-back clause active in summer 2027 adds a further complication for any suitor.

Frequently asked questions

Will Nico Paz leave Como in January?

No, Como have no intention of selling him in January, according to TeamTalk.

What is Nico Paz's release clause?

Real Madrid hold an €80million (£67.1m) buy-back clause that becomes active in summer 2027.

How much would Arsenal or Chelsea need to pay for Nico Paz?

Sources suggest Como could demand €100million-plus (£83.9m) from outside suitors.

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