Premier League
Real Madrid activates €9m buyback for Nico Páz
Real Madrid are set to trigger the €9m buyback clause for 21‑year‑old Argentine midfielder Nico Páz, bringing him back from Serie A side Como ahead of the 2026‑27 season. The activation must be formalised by the contractual deadline of 30 May, €9m clause was embedded in the 2024 transfer agreement, giving Real Madrid unilateral control over Páz’s future. Como received notification that the option will be exercised, but the Italian club holds no veto power.
The buyback structure includes three tiers: €8m for summer 2025, €9m for summer 2026 and €10m for summer 2027. Real Madrid declined the €8m option last summer, opting to wait for a higher fee.
Madrid also secured 50% of any future transfer fee for Páz in the original deal. Como chief executive Carlalberto Ludi sought to renegotiate these terms, but Madrid refused to alter the agreement.
Analysts in Spain and Italy assess Páz’s market value as substantially above the €9m fee, describing the activation as a bargain. The transaction reflects Madrid’s long‑term planning and the shrewdness of the original contract.
The buyback is the cleanest acquisition Real Madrid have undertaken this summer, avoiding protracted negotiations or agent fees. However, it remains unclear whether Páz will join the first‑team immediately or be loaned elsewhere, pending coaching staff decisions.