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Real Madrid have already strengthened their squad with a number of new signings to support newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso, yet the transfer market remains as dynamic as ever for a club that proudly calls itself the biggest in world football.

Recent reports suggest that a major outgoing transfer could be on the horizon. Vinicius Junior has long been linked with a move away from Real Madrid, and his growing dissatisfaction could potentially result in an exit from the Santiago Bernabeu.

While many Madrid fans might not lament the departure of a player perceived to have a strained relationship with his manager and a tendency to create internal friction, replacing a forward with genuine Ballon d'Or potential will be no easy task.

Should Vinicius Junior decide to leave Spain for Manchester City or another top European club, Real Madrid’s proactive transfer planning ahead of the summer window could allow them to secure a cost-effective replacement.

Attacking midfielder Nico Paz, currently shining for Como in Serie A, may not be a positional or tactical replica of the Brazilian star but could represent precisely the kind of reinforcement Real Madrid need to compensate for his potential departure.

“Real Madrid are planning to bring back Nico Paz as their first signing for 2026 as revealed months ago,” journalist Fabrizio Romano reported. “Nico already said YES.”

Los Blancos hold a buyback clause for the 21-year-old midfielder, who was sold to Como by Real Madrid in 2024. The club opted not to activate it during the 2025 summer window and are unable to do so in January.

Romano adds that the Spanish-born Argentina international is expected to return to Real Madrid next summer.

Paz is far from a budget-friendly option. Although Real Madrid have an advantage in reacquiring him, the young playmaker has attracted considerable interest from across Europe, emerging as one of Serie A’s most exciting and productive talents.

Como reportedly rejected multiple approaches for him during the latest transfer window.

Previously ranked 34th on FourFourTwo’s list of the most thrilling teenage prospects, Paz has impressed fans worldwide with his performances under the guidance of former Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas at Como.

After contributing six goals and eight assists across 30 Serie A appearances in the 2024/25 season, Paz has continued his fine form this campaign, netting five times and providing four assists in Italy’s top division so far.

He currently leads Serie A in both goals and assists, while also topping the charts for shot-creating and goal-creating actions.

Additionally, Paz ranks second in Serie A for tackles, key passes, and successful dribbles — underlining his all-round abilities and making a compelling case for why Real Madrid view him as a serious target to strengthen their squad following a potential Vinicius Junior exit.