Man Utd consider summer swoop for Como star Nico Paz while Real Madrid eye cheap deal to bring young star back to Spain

According to a report from CaughtOffside, United are reportedly eyeing a potential summer move for Como sensation Paz. The 20-year-old has been linked with a return to La Liga, with Real Madrid showing strong interest in activating their €8 million (£7m/$9m) buy-back clause. However, United are monitoring the situation closely and could make a move should the opportunity arise.

Paz graduated through the famed Madrid academy and made eight appearances for the first team in the 2023-24 season, scoring the winner against Napoli in the Champions League. He was sold to Serie A newcomers Como, where he has truly flourished under the tutelage of Cesc Fabregas.

A return to the Santiago Bernabeu has been widely suggested by the media, with new Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso believed to be a big admirer of the Argentine international. However, he could seriously consider a move to Old Trafford in search of more regular playing time given the embarrassment of riches at Alonso's disposal.

The Red Devils believe that Paz's reluctance to make a return to Spain without playing time guarantees could play a big factor in helping them capture his signature. What's more, Fabregas has been at the centre of immense speculation surrounding his potential departure from Como, with Inter looking to sign him as the successor to Simone Inzaghi.

If Madrid do trigger the buy-back option, Paz could be a part of the squad which will take part in the revamped Club World Cup that begins on June 14. Before that, though, he will be expected to feature for the Albiceleste in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Lionel Scaloni's men will face Chile on Friday, before taking on Colombia next Wednesday, June 11.