Como's Nico Paz. (REUTERS/Daniele Mascolo)
Pressure is mounting on Enzo Maresca as Chelsea’s early-season slump continued at the weekend.
After a dismal defeat to a struggling Manchester United side last week, things went from bad to worse this time around when the Blues were humbled 3-1 at Stamford Bridge by Brighton & Hove Albion.
Late goals from Maxime de Cuyper and Danny Welbeck sealed the visitors’ victory, leaving Chelsea nursing back-to-back league losses, two red cards in two games, and a glaring lack of attacking spark.
Despite the club’s heavy summer investment, serious questions are already being asked of Maresca’s project — and it seems the hierarchy are wasting no time in looking ahead to further signings.
Chelsea Want Nico Paz
According to Caught Offside, Chelsea are preparing to challenge Real Madrid in the race for highly rated Argentina international Nico Paz.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been one of Serie A’s standout young performers since joining Como, displaying the vision, creativity, and composure that have seen him tipped for stardom. Real Madrid, who inserted a buy-back clause when they sold him, are expected to activate it next summer.
However, Chelsea are hoping to derail those plans. Sources suggest the Blues are ready to test Como’s resolve and push for a permanent transfer before Los Blancos get the chance to bring him back.
Como, aware of the growing demand for their star man, are determined to secure a fair market value. They reportedly value Paz at around €80 million (£68m) — far higher than what Madrid would pay if they exercised their buy-back option.
Paz has already earned admiration from none other than Lionel Messi, who hailed his Argentina teammate as a player of real “quality.” That kind of endorsement only adds to his allure for Chelsea, who see him as a perfect fit for their long-term recruitment model.
Whether the youngster chooses Stamford Bridge or a return to the Santiago Bernabéu remains to be seen. And given Chelsea’s current turmoil, the safe bet might be Madrid — though the Premier League stage could still prove too tempting to turn down.
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