Arsenal have been urged to sign Como midfielder Nico Paz this summer, despite interest from Chelsea and a buy-back option held by his former club Real Madrid. The 21-year-old Argentine has impressed in Serie A under former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, scoring 11 goals this season and helping Como exceed expectations to sit in the Champions League places.
Former England international Owen Hargreaves has advised Arsenal to move for Paz, who joined Como from Real Madrid in 2024 for just €6 million (£5.2m). Speaking on TNT Sports, Hargreaves said: 'There’s a young lad at Como, Nico Paz. There’s an option for him to go back to Real Madrid but if I’m Arsenal… This kid – you’ll see him at the World Cup. Mikel Arteta will already know that this boy will be a star and if you don’t ask you don’t get. A player like that could suit Arsenal.'
Fabregas has been full of praise for Paz, describing him in November as 'a footballer capable of pulling a trick out of his hat at any moment.' Last week, he added: 'He sees the goal, he is not afraid. Nico enjoys playing, he can play different roles and he is very complete. I see a very, very big potential in him.'
Arsenal already boast a wealth of attacking options, including Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz. However, the club has faced criticism for an over-reliance on set pieces, with a record number of goals from dead-ball situations suggesting a lack of cutting edge in open play.
Paz's potential rise at the upcoming World Cup could increase his value, and with Real Madrid holding a buy-back option, Arsenal may need to act quickly to secure his signature. The Gunners have invested heavily in recent transfer windows, and adding Paz could provide the creative spark needed in open play.
