Al Karkh Overview

Real Madrid are weighing up an audacious transfer strategy that could see former academy star Nico Paz act as the key to unlocking a deal for Inter's Alessandro Bastoni. Jose Mourinho is desperate to bolster his defensive line at the Bernabeu, and a complex series of negotiations involving the Argentine midfielder may provide the perfect solution.

Real Madrid are prepared to officially inform Como of their firm intention to activate the bargain €9m buy-back clause for midfield sensation Nico Paz. The Spanish titans then plan to immediately offer the highly rated playmaker back to the Italian outfit for a staggering premium, exploiting his skyrocketing value after a stunning season.

Trevoh Chalobah looks increasingly likely to swap Stamford Bridge for Serie A this summer as the race for his signature intensifies in Italy. The defender, currently away with the England squad at the World Cup, has become a primary target for Italian giants Inter and ambitious newcomers Como, who have already submitted an initial bid for his services.

Real Madrid's hope of executing a quick-fire financial masterstroke with Nico Paz has been dashed by transfer regulations. The Spanish giants had planned to trigger a bargain buy-back clause for the Argentine playmaker before flipping him for an immediate €50 million (£43m/$57m) profit, but the move is now legally impossible this summer.