Palmer at risk as Chelsea join race for Argentina wonderkid LOVED by Messi

Cameron Smith

Updated: 20 Apr 2025 08:40 CDT
3 min read

Cole Palmer, Lionel Messi, Chelsea — © IMAGO

Chelsea have reportedly joined the race to sign Como wonderkid Nico Paz ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.

The Argentina international has enjoyed an immense debut campaign with the Serie A side and he has been heavily linked with numerous top European clubs in recent weeks, including Arsenal, Inter Milan and Manchester United.

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Current ETV

Nico Paz

AM, M (C)

Como

Nico Paz

AM, M (C)

Como

ETV Range

€39.6M - €48.5M

Real Madrid are also interested in the 20-year-old and they hold a key advantage in the race for his signature due to a buy-back clause worth a reported €8 million.

Los Blancos sold Paz to Como last summer and they are reportedly eager to bring him back to the Santiago Bernabeu at some point over the next few years, with a return to the Spanish capital widely tipped to take place either this year or in 2026.

However, Chelsea have now registered their interest in his services, according to Fichajes.

The Blues will have Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, Joao Felix, Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez as attacking midfield options ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, but they are reportedly eager to add Paz to their ranks amid their pursuit of the best youngsters in world football.

Palmer is an undisputed starter at Stamford Bridge, although Enzo Maresca recently issued a warning to the England international and he may find his place in the starting XI is at risk if his form doesn’t improve soon.

Lionel Messi on Nico Paz

Paz earned his first senior Argentina cap in October 2024 and Lionel Messi was quick to praise the youngster following his national team debut.

“Nico Paz has an incredible mindset, and that’s why he’s where he is,” Messi admitted to reporters. “Nico has a lot of quality and understands the game perfectly.

“He has an incredible mindset, and he’s with Cesc Fabregas as a coach who is my friend and will help him grow a lot.”

Paz has registered six goals and seven assists in 30 Serie A games so far this season, and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at a career high of €44.1m.