Amid the global spectacle of the 2026 World Cup, Serie A clubs are already laying the groundwork for the upcoming season, with several high-profile transfer stories emerging on June 16. From a young talent opting to continue his development in Italy to a Premier League midfield general attracting a monster bid, here's the latest from the calciomercato.
Nico Paz opts for another season at Como
Argentine starlet Nico Paz has reportedly decided to remain at Como for the 2026-27 campaign, turning down a potential early return to parent club Real Madrid. According to Spanish outlet AS and transfer journalist Nico Schira, the 21-year-old attacking midfielder has communicated his wish to stay with the Serie A side, where he has flourished since joining on loan.
Real Madrid still hold an option to re-sign Paz in the summer of 2027, but the player’s desire for regular first-team football appears to have swayed his decision. His performances at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia have not gone unnoticed, but another season in Lombardy could further accelerate his development before a potential move to a European giant.
Tottenham enter race for Tonali as Newcastle name their price
Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as strong suitors for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, with new manager Roberto De Zerbi reportedly pushing hard for the signing. The Italian tactician is eager to reunite with the former AC Milan star, whom he knows well from their time together in Italy.
However, prying Tonali away from St James' Park will not come cheap. Both Gazzetta dello Sport and The Times claim that Newcastle have slapped a hefty €150 million price tag on the 26-year-old, who has been a key figure in their recent successes. With the Premier League's financial firepower, a bidding war could ensue, though Tottenham will need to smash their transfer record to land the deep-lying playmaker.
Chelsea fix their sights on Serie A defensive duo
Chelsea are plotting a double defensive swoop on Italy’s top flight, targeting Atalanta's Marco Palestra and Juventus wing-back Andrea Cambiaso. The reports come shortly after the Blues agreed to sell Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid, leaving them in need of reinforcements on the left side of defence.
Palestra, 20, has enjoyed a breakout season with Atalanta, showcasing his versatility and tactical intelligence. Meanwhile, Cambiaso, 26, has developed into one of the most reliable full-backs in Serie A, offering both defensive solidity and attacking thrust. Chelsea’s recruitment team, led by co-directors of football, are said to be close to opening formal talks, with preliminary discussions already underway.
Quick Facts
Nico Paz decision: Staying at Como for 2026-27
Real Madrid buy-back option: Valid from summer 2027
Sandro Tonali asking price: €150 million
Tottenham interest: Driven by manager Roberto De Zerbi
Chelsea targets: Marco Palestra (Atalanta) and Andrea Cambiaso (Juventus)
Key Takeaways
- Nico Paz’s commitment to Como provides stability for the newly promoted side and delays a Real Madrid return until at least 2027.
- Newcastle’s €150m evaluation of Sandro Tonali represents a massive financial barrier for Tottenham, testing Daniel Levy’s ambition.
- Chelsea’s pursuit of two Serie A defenders signals a shift toward younger, tactically flexible full-backs after the Cucurella departure.
- Serie A continues to be a breeding ground for talent coveted by Premier League giants, underlining the league’s enduring technical prestige.
Source: Football Italia