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Real Madrid's expected move into a new Jose Mourinho era could create fresh competition for Arda Guler, as the club is looking to strengthen its midfield and is expected to decide whether to bring Nico Paz back from Como.
According to The Athletic, Mourinho has agreed to a three-year contract to become Real Madrid's next manager, but the appointment comes at an uncertain time for the Spanish club because of an unexpected presidential election called by Florentino Perez.
The vote, scheduled for June 7, will see Perez challenged by Enrique Riquelme, a 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur. The result is expected to shape who makes key sporting decisions during the summer transfer window.
Mourinho has reportedly focused first on strengthening Real Madrid's defense during his early talks with the club, but he also wants a midfielder to be brought in.
Madrid and Mourinho are said to agree that the squad needs reinforcement after two consecutive seasons without winning a major trophy. The club is looking at several areas, including right-back, left-back, central defense and midfield.
The search for a creative midfielder has drawn attention because Arda Guler already operates in similar attacking and creative areas. That has led some Real Madrid supporters to question what such a move could mean for the Türkiye international's place in the squad.
One possible midfield option is Nico Paz, the 21-year-old Argentina midfielder who plays for Como. Real Madrid can bring him back through a buy-back clause worth around €9 million (approximately $10 million).
Paz has told Como that he would be open to staying for another season if he is unlikely to play regularly at Madrid. However, the final decision will be made by Real Madrid.
If Paz returns, Guler could face increased competition for minutes in midfield and attacking roles. The report does not say if Madrid is looking to sell Guler, but it suggests that the club's midfield planning could directly affect the level of competition around him.
Real Madrid's summer plans also depend on the outcome of the presidential election. Under Perez, the club has worked with a clear structure in recent years, with chief scout Juni Calafat preparing reports, general manager Jose Angel Sanchez leading negotiations and Perez keeping the final say.
Riquelme has said he would appoint a sporting director if elected. He has also suggested that Manchester City midfielder Rodri would be one of his targets, although Madrid's concrete transfer plans remain unclear until the election is settled.
Madrid has not made major incoming moves beyond Endrick's return from Lyon. The club may also look at outgoing deals, with Dani Ceballos wanting to leave and Eduardo Camavinga possibly attracting offers at the right price, although the player wants to stay.
For Guler, the key issue is not an immediate exit but the changing structure around him. Mourinho's arrival, Madrid's search for a creative midfielder and the possible return of Paz could all make his fight for regular minutes more demanding next season.
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