Real Madrid ready to complete first summer signing as they 'trigger clause'

It is expected to be a busy summer at Real Madrid as they prepare to overhaul their underperforming squad ahead of the 2026-27 season – and it appears a first signing is very much on the horizon.

By their exceptionally high standards, it has been a disastrous campaign at Los Blancos, who are on course for a second consecutive season without a major trophy following their Champions League exit to Bayern Munich.

Madrid president Florentino Perez, who has become accustomed to titles and success, made his feelings abundantly clear in Munich, according to Diario Sport.

Speaking in the Allianz dressing room, Perez said: “I appreciate your effort today, but the season has been a true disappointment for everyone."

He added: “You know the demands that come with being Real Madrid players. A season without titles is a failure because we are Real Madrid, but two seasons without winning titles is intolerable.”

After such a disappointing campaign, many expect the club to make a statement of intent this summer. In fact, those behind the scenes are working hard to wrap up their first signing of the summer.

A report from AS that uses the headline 'Real Madrid trigger Nico Paz buyback clause' suggests they are on the verge of completing a move for their former player.

Paz, who joined Serie A side Como from Madrid in 2024 for around €6 million (£5.2m), has impressed for Cesc Fabregas' side this season, with the attacking midfielder scoring 13 goals in all competitions.

The 21-year-old is aware that Madrid are planning to activate the buyback clause included in his transfer agreement with Como, which is reportedly worth €9 million (£7.8m).

Contract agreement is in place with Paz

When Como completed a deal to sign Paz in the summer of 2024, it is said that all parties agreed to a structured deal that included a future buyback option.

Nico Paz has impressed for Como this season. Image credit: Getty

In terms of the clause, the deadline for Madrid to activate is May 30, but AS suggest the club consider his return as a 'priority' and has informed parties of its intention to make a deal happen before that date.