Manchester City have joined Arsenal in scouting Como attacking midfielder Nico Paz, according to reports.

Caught Offside claim that the Argentinian international is being “targeted” by the two Premier League sides.

However, speaking back in January, Como head coach (and former Arsenal player) Cesc Fabregas said that Paz would not be sold for a low price unless his former team Real Madrid trigger a €12m buyback clause:

“If Real Madrid don’t want to buy him back, Como won’t sell him for €40 or 50 million (£33m to £41m) because we want to create a future, an identity with this group of talented young players.”

“We are working slowly and quietly to have him with us. All of us, starting with the club and the president, know what we have to do. In three or four years, Como can become a very strong team.”

What do fans need to know about Paz?

The Argentine was actually born in Spain, coming through Tenerife’s academy prior to joining Real in the summer of 2016.

Paz made 8 appearances for the La Liga giants prior to making his move to Como last year. This season, he has scored 6 goals and provided 5 assists in 26 appearances for the Serie A side.

He was also given his first senior cap by Argentina back in October, providing the assist for Lionel Messi’s hat-trick goal during a 6-0 win over Bolivia in a World Cup qualifier.

City are in the market for a new playmaker

There are doubts over the futures of several midfielders heading into the next transfer window. Kevin De Bruyne‘s contract will expire at the end of June, while Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva and even Mateo Kovacic may leave over the coming months.

It would not be a surprise if Paz is being considered as the club look to freshen up the squad with younger talent.

Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here