Real Madrid Set to Present Franco Mastantuono in Record-Breaking Transfer

Real Madrid will introduce Franco Mastantuono as their newest player tomorrow. The Argentine midfielder, a rising star, joins them in a historic transfer from River Plate and the Argentina national team. His presentation at the Bernabéu will follow his 18th birthday.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid announced the official unveiling of Franco Mastantuono, a highly promising young midfielder. The club reached an agreement with River Plate for a world-record $72.6 million transfer, plus add-ons, marking the highest fee ever paid for an Argentine player. Mastantuono bid farewell to River Plate during the Club World Cup in the United States and now prepares for his move to Spain, fulfilling both his and the club’s wishes. He has signed a contract extending until June 2031, as confirmed by reports here. Following interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Madrid acted swiftly to secure the deal, as Mastantuono had always favored the Spanish giants. He concluded his spell with River Plate with four goals and four assists in just 12 matches this season.

WHY THIS DEAL MATTERS

The acquisition of Mastantuono represents a significant boost for Real Madrid, who had a disappointing 2024/25 season. They finished second in La Liga and failed to secure a major trophy, enduring four defeats against arch-rivals Barcelona last season. This prompted a coaching change and a focus on young talent. Mastantuono becomes Madrid’s third signing of the transfer window, joining Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen as part of a squad overhaul. The club’s coaches are optimistic that he can quickly become a first-team regular thanks to his passing prowess and threat from set pieces. He recently made his debut for the Argentina senior national team against Chile and expressed his desire to emulate Alfredo Di Stefano’s path from River Plate to Real Madrid.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MADRID AND MASTANTUONO?

Mastantuono will join Madrid for training upon his arrival since he is eligible to do so after turning 18. Real Madrid’s new La Liga campaign kicks off against Osasuna, and they aim to improve on last season’s second-place finish. With Osasuna finishing 10th last season, Madrid is eager to assert their newfound strength early. Mastantuono might be integrated gradually, but the coaching staff appreciates his personality and skills, which could enable him to handle the pressure quickly. The top rivals above them, Barcelona, remain just ahead, making every early point critical. Fans will keenly watch how quickly the young star adjusts to life in Spain and contributes to the club’s goals for the season.