Inter Milan and AC Milan are gearing up for what could be one of the most compelling transfer battles of the summer, with both clubs eyeing young Argentine talent Nico Paz. The 20-year-old midfielder, currently playing for Como, has captured the attention of big clubs across Europe after making waves with his performances this season.
Paz joined Como from Real Madrid last summer for €6 million, and he has quickly established himself as one of the standout players in Serie A, contributing three goals and three assists so far. His impressive form has not only endeared him to local fans but has also significantly increased his market value, which has reportedly quadrupled since his arrival.
According to the Italian newspaper Tuttosport, both Inter and Milan face off against each other not just on the pitch, where they are set to compete for domestic titles, but also off it as rivals pursuing similar transfer strategies. This summer, they are both focusing on revitalizing their squads with youthful talent as they look to build for the future.
Inter Milan seems to have the inside track on signing Paz, especially if their current player Davide Frattesi decides to leave the club. With Frattesi’s potential exit, Paz has emerged as the main target and is seen by Inter's coach Simone Inzaghi as the perfect fit for their 3-5-2 system. On the other hand, AC Milan is reportedly more interested in another target, Torino’s Samuele Ricci, but their eyes are nonetheless on the Argentine talent.
Calciomercato has also reported Paz’s desire to continue his career at Inter, viewing the Giuseppe Meazza as an attractive destination. Some insiders suggest Paz’s considerable ambition and skill could grant him more playing time with the Nerazzurri than he might receive at his parent club. Real Madrid holds a buyback clause set at €12 million, and many speculate they are likely to act on it due to his extraordinary rise.
Speaking about his potential, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has mentioned, “Nico Paz is a player we follow closely. He is very good and has great talent. This season away from Real Madrid is doing him very well. We believe he is a player who can be the future of Real Madrid.” His words signal the enormous expectations placed upon Paz and the careful decisions Real Madrid will have to make concerning their young asset.
It’s worth noting the club’s history with Argentine players, as Inter has seen success with stars like Lautaro Martínez, and the prospect of adding another young talent makes the move even more appealing. To add to the intrigue, the Milanese giants have adopted similar approaches to scouting and recruitment, leading to this face-off for Paz.
The transfer dynamics become even more interesting when considering the prospect of Real Madrid exercising their buyback option. Madrid’s interest remains, particularly as they look to bolster their squad, but the player’s development will play a significant role. Given the current form shown at Como, it wouldn’t be surprising if the young star wishes to aim for more regular first-team football, something he might achieve more readily outside of Madrid.
While Paz’s connections with both Italian clubs grow, the urgency of the situation may become even more pertinent as the summer transfer window approaches. With reports indicating Madrid maintaining their right to repurchase him, both Milan and Inter need to demonstrate their commitment, likely needing to present significant offers if they hope to secure the midfielder's future.
For now, it is clear Paz has been thriving at Como, possibly representing his last months there as clubs circle. He has racked up 1,332 minutes of play across 17 games this season, demonstrating significant on-field maturity for such a young player. Despite his dream of succeeding with Real Madrid, the opportunity for guaranteed minutes elsewhere might be what seals his decision.
There seems to be no shortage of speculation surrounding Paz, but as he continues to showcase his abilities week after week, one thing is for sure: his future will be one of the most closely watched stories of the upcoming transfer window. With Inter Milan and AC Milan both eager to capitalize on his potential, the real question remains: where will Nico Paz land?