Como Star Nico Paz at Centre of Transfer Tug-of-War with Real Madrid
The Serie A summer window is heating up, and Como midfielder Nico Paz finds himself in a delicate stalemate with Real Madrid. The 21-year-old Argentine has made it clear he wants to spend at least one more season with the Lariani, but that decision has not gone down well in the Spanish capital. According to Corriere dello Sport, Real Madrid are actively pushing Paz to return to the Bernabeu and have warned Como that it will cost a hefty €60m to permanently remove the buy-back option they hold on the former academy product.
"The situation is tense because Paz is happy at Como and feels he can grow under Cesc Fabregas, but Madrid see him as a key part of their future and don't want to wait," a source close to the negotiations told Football Italia.
Paz joined Como last summer in a deal worth around €8m, and his 12 goals and 9 assists in 36 Serie A appearances have only intensified Madrid's desire to re-sign him. Como, backed by ambitious ownership, are prepared to dig in their heels and could even discuss a new contract to fend off interest. For now, though, the ball is in Real Madrid's court as the €60m ultimatum looms large.
Juventus Make Surprise Move for Paulo Dybala Return
In what would be one of the most sensational returns in recent Serie A history, Juventus have reportedly made contact with the agent of Paulo Dybala to explore a free transfer reunion. La Joya's contract with Roma expires on June 30, 2026, and La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that contract extension talks have stalled dramatically, pushing Juve to test the waters.
Dybala, who left Juventus on a free transfer in 2022 after seven trophy-laden seasons, has been Roma's talisman, netting 34 goals in 98 appearances across all competitions. However, financial constraints and a shifting strategy under Claudio Ranieri have left the 32-year-old's future in the balance. Juve's new technical director Cristiano Giuntoli is said to be driving the interest, believing Dybala's creativity and experience could complement the club's young attacking core.
"We are aware of the rumours, but Paulo is still a Roma player and we are focused on concluding the season," a Roma spokesperson said, refusing to confirm the negotiations.
While a return to Turin would be romantic, it hinges on Dybala lowering his wage demands and Roma failing to present a satisfactory renewal package. With the deadline approaching, the next fortnight could be decisive for one of Serie A's most beloved players.
Inter Target Curtis Jones, but Liverpool's €30m Price Tag Stalls Deal
Inter are ramping up their summer midfield rebuild and have identified Curtis Jones of Liverpool as a prime target. The 25-year-old Englishman, who made 28 Premier League appearances last season, fits the mould of a dynamic, ball-carrying midfielder that manager Simone Inzaghi craves. However, Liverpool are reluctant to sell for anything less than €30m, a sum that stretches Inter's budget.
Jones, a Liverpool academy graduate, still sees his long-term future at Anfield but is open to a new challenge if the club signals he is surplus to requirements. Inter's director of sport Piero Ausilio has been in London this week, and initial soundings suggest a compromise could be reached through add-ons or a player-plus-cash deal. But with West Ham and Newcastle also monitoring the situation, a bidding war could erupt.
For now, Inter are exploring alternatives, including Udinese's Lazar Samardzic, but Jones remains the first choice. The next move likely depends on whether Liverpool secure their own midfield targets in the coming days.
Key Takeaways
- Real Madrid are furious with Nico Paz's desire to stay at Como and have set a €60m price to remove the buy-back clause, potentially forcing the Argentine's hand.
- Juventus have initiated contact with Paulo Dybala's agent, but any return depends on Roma failing to agree a new contract before his deal expires on June 30.
- Inter are pressing for Curtis Jones, but Liverpool's €30m valuation is a significant obstacle, with the Nerazzurri likely needing to offload players to fund the move.
- All three situations could accelerate in the final weeks of June, with clubs eager to resolve key transfer sagas before pre-season.
Quick Facts
Nico Paz age: 21
Como appearances 2025/26: 36
Real Madrid's buy-back removal cost: €60m
Paulo Dybala contract expiry: June 30, 2026
Dybala Roma goals (all comps): 34 in 98 apps
Liverpool's asking price for Curtis Jones: €30m
Jones 2025/26 PL appearances: 28