According to a report by The Athletic on Friday, 23 October 2026, Xabi Alonso, Chelsea manager, has a history of high praise for Nico Paz from his time at Real Madrid. Now, reports indicate that the Blues are ramping up their interest in the Como playmaker in anticipation of a possible transfer.

Two matches prior to his outstanding performance against Manchester United, Chelsea sent scouts to observe Paz. After gaining prominence in Italy, the Argentine midfielder has maintained his status as a media darling.

Under the tutelage of Cesc Fabregas, a former Chelsea midfielder, Paz transferred from Real Madrid to Como in the summer of 2024. In the 85 games that followed, he scored 45 goals and added 45 assists.

Real Madrid reportedly used a £9 million buyback clause to sell him back to Como for approximately £50 million after he made such remarkable progress. According to reports, Madrid also has another £70 million buyback option in his contract.

The 21-year-old's performances have solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young attacking midfielders in Europe, but if Chelsea decides to pursue him, they could face a substantial financial commitment.

Even before rumors of Chelsea's interest surfaced, Alonso knew Paz. The question of whether he had contemplated re-signing the midfielder to Real Madrid arose after he took over as manager in the summer of 2025.

Both this season and the one before it were fruitful for him. It was a wise move on his part to work with that coach at Como. But for the moment, it's premature; we'll have to wait and see," Alonso stated.

After scoring a header against Fiorentina, Paz has also drawn attention due to comparisons with Hernan Crespo, a former Chelsea striker. While acknowledging the comparison, the Argentine chose to focus on his father, Pablo, rather than accepting it.

The header I scored in Florence led to comparisons to Batistuta and Crespo, which I read about. But then I remember my dad, Pablo. His strength in the air was impressive.

In the event that Chelsea qualify for the European Championship and require more depth in their roster, a transfer to Stamford Bridge would provide Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers with another creative option.