Manchester United looking to sign Nico Paz from Como to replace Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United confirmed Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment as their head coach after Michael Carrick was relieved of his duties earlier this week following the team’s underwhelming start to the 2026/27 season.

One of Pochettino’s first decisions at the club would be regarding who he wants to hold on and let go of from the squad, and Bruno Fernandes is among those who futures haves been brought under the scanner lately.

Following rumours linking him to Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese international has turned down a second contract extension offer from the Red Devils, who have now started looking for long-term replacements in the transfer market.

According to The Sun, Como midfielder Nico Paz is Manchester United’s preferred option to replace Fernandes. The Argentine international is in terrific form this season with six goals and eight assists in all competitions.

Real Madrid have a buyback clause for him worth £67 million, so it is safe to presume that United would need to pay at least that much to sign the 22-year-old. Whether he is open to joining the club, however, will largely be down to how they end the season.

United may not be able to lure Paz to Old Trafford

Given his fine form for Como, there will be a massive demand for Nico Paz’s services next summer and with their buyback clause, Real Madrid are already the frontrunners for his purchase and have the most bargaining power.

With that said, Manchester United’s recent form suggests they might not make the Champions League next year and will also need to undergo a major transitional phase if they are to return to their glory days, so Paz might not be open to joining them.

He is already challenging for the Serie A title with Como alongside going toe-to-toe with the biggest clubs in Europe in the Champions League, so the young attacking midfielder will look for a bigger challenge next at a club where he can win silverware.

It will be interesting to see what comes of Bruno Fernandes’ future at Old Trafford, especially following Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment, but Man United’s interest in Nico Paz might be very ambitious as things currently stand.