Nico Paz will return to Real Madrid next summer as Jose Mourinho's first major signing, according to Spanish media reports. The 21-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder is set to complete his move from Como in June 2026, with the player having already agreed personal terms with the Spanish giants.
Paz departed Real Madrid for the Italian side in summer 2024 after limited opportunities with the first team, where he had made eight appearances. Since joining Como, the prospect has thrived under manager Cesc Fabregas, establishing himself as one of Serie A's most promising young talents. His statistics speak volumes: 19 goals and 17 assists across 75 appearances demonstrate his creative impact and goal-scoring threat from midfield.
Messi's Seal of Approval
Lionel Messi has become an influential advocate for Paz at international level. After the midfielder's Argentina debut in October 2024, Messi publicly praised his maturity, describing his attributes as "crazy and beyond his age" and noting that he "has an impressive head" for the game. Such endorsement from one of football's greatest ever players carries significant weight in Madrid's decision-making.
Real Madrid included buy-back and sell-on clauses when Paz departed, securing their pathway to re-signing the talented playmaker. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed in November 2025 that the club planned to activate this arrangement in summer 2026. Como have expressed their desire to retain Paz through the 2025-26 season, meaning the buy-back clause cannot be exercised in January.
Mourinho's Blueprint
The return of Paz will occur under new management, with Mourinho set to replace current boss Alvaro Arbeloa at the end of the current campaign. Despite the managerial change, Madrid's recruitment strategy has remained constant. According to AS journalist Agustín Martín, Paz's arrival is certain and will form part of Mourinho's squad rebuild at the Bernabéu, where the Portuguese coach aims to restore the club's dominance in La Liga and European competition.
With Messi's endorsement, consistent performances in Italy, and contractual certainty, Paz represents an exciting prospect for Madrid's midfield evolution under Mourinho's direction.
