Manchester United’s poor season took another dismal turn in midweek when they were ripped apart by Como in the Champions League. Michael Carrick’s team conceded in the second minute of the game and went on to lose the tie 4-1.
It was the Red Devils’ second consecutive defeat in the European competition this season. The English giants also lost 2-0 to Atletico Madrid in the previous tie.
To put things into perspective, United have now lost five of their 11 games in all competitions this season, winning just two. They are 13th in the Premier League table after seven games and have already exited the EFL Cup.
The Red Devils have struggled to impress in the final third, with Bruno Fernandes suffering a prolonged dip in form. The situation has prompted the English giants to draw up succession plans, and they appear to have found an option in Serie A.
United eyeing Nico Paz
According to Spanish newspaper AS, as cited by Tuttomercatoweb, United and Chelsea both have their eyes on Como’s Nico Paz. The Argentine arrived at Como from Real Madrid in the summer of 2024 and has developed in leaps and bounds since.
Last season, the 22-year-old registered 13 goals and eight assists in 40 appearances across competitions. His efforts helped the Italian club finish fourth in the league and secure qualification for the Champions League.
This campaign, Paz has already shifted up a gear, registering four goals and five assists in 10 games across all competitions.
Nico Paz Stats: 2026/27 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow cards | Second yellow cards | Red cards | Minutes played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serie A | 7 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 1 | - | - | 571' |
| UEFA Champions League | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 1 | - | - | 260' |
| Total | 10 | 10 | 4 | 5 | 2 | - | - | 831' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
His efforts appear to have earned him admirers at Old Trafford, especially after a blockbuster display in midweek. The Argentine tormented United, scoring two goals and setting up one more.
Real Madrid have buy-back clause
The report goes on to confirm that Real Madrid have a buy-back clause in Paz’s contract that can be exercised next summer. It states: “Real Madrid, however, have a buy-back clause (€80 million) which is only valid next summer, from 1 to 15 July.”
The Serie A side, however, are keen to build a team around the Argentine, with the report adding: “As for Como, on the other hand, the intention and hope is to keep him, the darling of the Como fans, to build an ever-stronger team.”
Paz is under contract until 2028, but given his incredible recent rise, the player could spark a bidding war for his signature next summer.
Final Thoughts
Paz could be a fine long-term replacement for Fernandes at Old Trafford. However, United must get their act together on the pitch if they wish to attract top talents like the Argentine in 2027.
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 5/10
Why?
✅ Nico Paz has been linked with United before.
⚠️ The latest claims could be speculation from a Spanish publication rather than evidence of concrete interest from United
TPP view
We believe reports suggesting that United are ready to battle Chelsea for Nico Paz could be premature.
Feature image Marco Luzzani via Getty Images
