Man Utd plot January swoop for £67m Nico Paz as Bruno Fernandes replacement

Manchester United are considering a January move for Como midfielder Nico Paz as they prepare for a possible departure of captain Bruno Fernandes, according to El Nacional. The 20-year-old Argentine has five goals and six assists this season, but Real Madrid's £67m buyback clause complicates any deal.

  • Player: Nico Paz (Como, 20, attacking midfielder)
  • Fee: Real Madrid hold a £67m buyback clause; United would need to better that
  • Timing: January window, subject to Bruno Fernandes' future
  • Paz's form: Five goals and six assists in all competitions this season
  • United's run: Without a win in nine matches in all competitions

Deal details

United's interest in Paz is reportedly contingent on the future of Bruno Fernandes, who has been one of the club's biggest underperformers this season. After passively criticising the manager's tactics two weeks ago, Fernandes was benched against Bournemouth. The report suggests United are lining up replacements and could move for Paz as soon as January.

Real Madrid inserted a £67 million buyback clause for Paz when he joined Como, so any United approach would likely need to exceed that figure. The Spanish giants are in the picture but may not activate the clause given the form of Arda Guler and Jude Bellingham. No formal offer has been made, and the source describes United's interest as emerging rather than advanced.

Why United may struggle to land Paz

The report notes that a move to Old Trafford may be a tall order for a player of Paz's calibre, with some of Europe's biggest clubs vying for his services. United's lack of success recently across all competitions could make them an unattractive destination, and without a promising sporting project, they will find it hard to attract the world's best talent.

Paz is regarded as one of Europe's best number 10s. Beyond his numbers, his positioning in pockets of space, intelligent runs and ability to dictate play with pinpoint passing make him a top talent. Such attributes would be in demand across the continent, and United's current predicament—nine games without a win—is unlikely to strengthen their case.

What happens next

United's immediate focus is on ending their winless run, but the January window will force a decision on Fernandes and a potential move for Paz. Any approach would have to navigate Real Madrid's buyback clause and competition from rival clubs. The coming weeks will reveal whether United's interest materialises into a concrete bid.

Frequently asked questions

Are Manchester United signing Nico Paz?

Manchester United are considering a January move for Nico Paz, but no deal is agreed and Real Madrid hold a £67m buyback clause.

Why would Man Utd sign Nico Paz?

Paz has emerged as a prime target as United line up replacements for Bruno Fernandes, whose future at the club is uncertain after being benched against Bournemouth.

How much would Nico Paz cost?

Real Madrid have a £67 million buyback clause for Paz, so Manchester United would likely need to better that price to sign him.

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