In Argentina, the No. 10 is never just a number. It carries the weight of Diego Maradona, then Messi, and all the expectation that comes with being the creative centre of the national side.
That is why this reported discussion matters.
Paz has long looked like a modern attacking talent: technical, calm in possession and comfortable operating between midfield and attack. The report says his club form has strengthened the case for him, and that is easy to understand.
He is not the loudest option, nor the most established household name, but that may be part of the appeal. Argentina under Scaloni has often preferred balance, tactical intelligence and collective discipline over pure star billing.
This is where Scaloni becomes central. If he does extend, as reports suggest could be discussed, continuity may be the biggest advantage Argentina can have. A generational handover is always delicate; doing it with the same coach would make the transition feel planned rather than forced.
The next international window could offer the first clues. Whether Paz gets the shirt soon or not, the bigger question is already forming: what will Argentina look like when the Messi era finally gives way to the next one?