Real Madrid could use Nico Paz deal to unlock €70m defensive target in smart transfer strategy – report

Real Madrid could use Nico Paz deal to unlock €70m defensive target in smart transfer strategy – report Real Madrid’s plans for the summer transfer window could see two separate deals work in the club’s favour.  While the Spanish giants are preparing to make a final decision on Nico Paz’s future, fresh reports suggest the midfielder’s next move could indirectly help Real Madrid in their pursuit of Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni. According to Siro Lopez (h/t Madrid Zone ), there is a growing belief that a transfer involving Nico Paz and Inter Milan could strengthen the relationship between the two clubs during negotiations for Bastoni.  Although both operations are being handled independently, they could ultimately benefit one another if talks progress in the coming days. Nico Paz decision could open door for Bastoni Real Madrid have already decided to activate their buy-back option for Nico Paz by paying €9 million, bringing the Argentine back under the club’s control.  The move also gives Como the opportunity to re-sign the youngster for €60 million, although that option remains valid only until Monday. Inter Milan are interested in Nico Paz. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images) The coming days are therefore expected to be decisive for Nico’s future, with several clubs still keeping a close eye on the situation.  Among them is Inter Milan , who have identified the Argentine as a player capable of strengthening their midfield ahead of the new campaign. Should Inter formalise their interest, Real Madrid would find themselves negotiating directly with the Serie A club.  That could prove significant given the excellent working relationship between the two sides. Although Nico’s transfer would be a separate transaction, it could help create a smoother negotiating environment if Real Madrid later push for Bastoni. Real Madrid interested in Bastoni Real Madrid are unwilling to match Inter’s valuation for Bastoni. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images) Notably, strengthening the defence is one of Real Madrid’s priorities before the transfer window closes.  And on that note, Bastoni remains one of the names admired inside the club, with several reports claiming he is on the shortlist of defensive targets. There have also been suggestions that Jose Mourinho has personally spoken with the Italian international in an effort to convince him that a move to the Santiago Bernabeu would be the right step in his career. The biggest obstacle remains Inter’s valuation, with the Italian club believed to want around €70 million for Bastoni, a figure Real Madrid are currently unwilling to match . That is why Nico’s situation could become an important factor. If Inter intensify their pursuit of the Argentine, Real Madrid would gain valuable leverage during discussions and could attempt to negotiate a lower fee for Bastoni as part of wider talks between the two clubs.