Nico Paz’s night with Javier Zanetti sparks Inter rumors as Real Madrid weigh buyback

Whatever the future holds for Nico Paz, part of him will remain in Italy. And not just the memory of his skill on the field.

Paz dines out at Zanetti’s Milan restaurant

The Argentine midfielder, currently playing for Como 1907, recently enjoyed a memorable night in Milan at Botinero, the restaurant owned by Javier Zanetti, vice president of Inter Milan, and his family.

Zanetti’s wife, Paula de la Fuente, shared the moment on social media. One photo shows Paz alongside his father, former Argentina international Pablo Paz, as well as Zanetti himself and another iconic figure of Italian and South American soccer, Diego Milito.

During the visit, Paz signed one of his soccer boots. It will now be displayed in one of the restaurant’s showcases alongside memorabilia from many other prominent players.

As a sign of her admiration for the young Argentine, De la Fuente added a simple caption to the photo she posted online: “Aura.”

Inter move not on the cards... for now

Inter have never hidden their appreciation for the talented playmaker, who plays under coach Cesc Fàbregas at Como. However, circumstances in the transfer market have never aligned to bring him to the Nerazzurri.

Real Madrid still hold huge advantage

The attacking midfielder’s current price tag is extremely high, reportedly at least €60 million to €70 million, roughly $68.5 million to $80 million. But beyond that, Paz appears destined to return to his former club, Real Madrid.

His contract with Como includes a buyback clause that Madrid can activate at the start of the summer transfer window. The fee is set at €10 million ($11.4 million) in 2026 and €11 million ($12.55 million) in 2027.

It would be surprising if Madrid chose not to exercise that option. Still, the transfer market is famously unpredictable, and agreements can always be renegotiated.

Much will ultimately depend on Paz himself. His preferences appear fairly clear for now, although his final decision is likely to come once the season comes to an end.

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