Franco Mastantuono: Real Madrid’s Newest Teenage Star Shares His Dream

Franco Mastantuono described his move to Real Madrid as a dream come true, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to join what he calls the world’s best club. The 17-year-old Argentine midfielder is set to join Los Blancos in August, after a record-breaking transfer from River Plate.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Mastantuono, who came through River Plate‘s academy, agreed a six-year deal with Real Madrid that will last until June 2031. His official arrival is scheduled for August 14, 2025, after he turns 18. The transfer fee reached $72.6 million, making it the most expensive sale in Argentine football history. Despite strong interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Mastantuono insisted on a move to Madrid. He called his transfer a dream and thanked life for giving him this chance.

According to a previous report we published, Franco Mastantuono is joining Real Madrid from River Plate after being persuaded by a personal conversation with Xabi Alonso.

MASTANTUONO’S RAPID RISE

Mastantuono has been widely praised as one of Argentina’s best young talents. In the 2024-25 season, he scored four goals and made four assists in just 12 league appearances for River Plate. He also became the youngest player to feature for Argentina’s national team, making his debut in a World Cup qualifier win over Chile. At River Plate, Mastantuono broke records as the youngest ever goalscorer and helped win the Argentine Super Cup.

According to a previous report we published, Franco Mastantuono has scored four goals and made four assists in 12 games in Argentina’s first division this season.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MADRID AND MASTANTUONO?

Real Madrid, who struggled in the previous campaign and failed to secure a major trophy, see Mastantuono as a key part of their rebuild. The club’s new manager, Xabi Alonso, believes the Argentine midfielder will make an immediate impact with his vision and set-piece skills. Madrid’s first match of the 2025-26 season will be in late August as they look to reclaim domestic and European glory. Mastantuono is expected to join pre-season training soon after his arrival, competing for minutes with an already talented midfield group.