Chelsea could face a major obstacle in their pursuit of Nico Paz if former Blues midfielder Cesc Fabregas leaves Como to become the next manager of Inter Milan.

According to a report by ESPN on Sunday, November 8, 2026, Inter are considering Fabregas as a potential replacement for under-pressure manager Christian Chivu, with the Italian club also having an interest in signing Paz.

Chelsea have been monitoring the Argentine midfielder ahead of the January transfer window, with the club reportedly sending scouts to watch him in action for Como.

The Blues' representatives were said to have attended Como's 3-2 defeat to Feyenoord and their subsequent victory over Fiorentina.

Paz has continued to attract attention with his impressive performances, including his display against Manchester United, a goal and an assist against Torino, and Como's emphatic 9-1 victory over Lens.

However, Fabregas' possible departure could complicate Chelsea's plans because of the close relationship between the Como manager and the 22-year-old midfielder.

Paz previously spoke about the influence Fabregas has had on his development, explaining: "He taught me practically everything. I arrived here as a young player from Castilla. It was all thanks to Cesc, who believed in me.

"He brought me here. From the first day, he let me play the way I wanted and gave me a lot of freedom. He taught me a lot. I think the player I am today is all down to him."

Should Fabregas secure the Inter job, Paz could become one of his priority transfer targets, potentially giving the Serie A champions an advantage over Chelsea.

Real Madrid also remain an important factor in the situation because of their contractual agreement with Como.

The Spanish giants previously had a buyback clause worth less than £10m, which they exercised before Como eventually secured Paz permanently for around £50m.

However, the new agreement reportedly includes a £70m buyback clause for Real Madrid.

Chelsea could still explore a deal by offering Como between £80m and £90m, potentially persuading the Italian club to consider selling rather than allowing Madrid to activate their clause.

Nevertheless, Fabregas joining Inter could make Chelsea's pursuit considerably more difficult, particularly if the midfielder prefers to continue working under the manager who has played such an important role in his development.