Real Madrid Pushing Hard to Secure Mastantuono Signing

Real Madrid are leading the race to sign River Plate’s 17-year-old star Franco Mastantuono. Their representatives are already in Buenos Aires to finalize the deal this week.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid have increased their efforts to sign River Plate’s wonderkid Franco Mastantuono. The Spanish giants have sent representatives to Argentina to close the deal. Los Blancos are now determined to secure the talented 17-year-old midfielder despite strong competition from Paris Saint-Germain, who were previously considered favorites for his signature. Madrid hope to complete the transfer quickly, potentially making Mastantuono available for this month’s Club World Cup in the United States.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

This aggressive push from Madrid comes after a disappointing season, which saw them finish as runners-up in La Liga and fail to land any major trophies. The club are now rebuilding under new head coach Xabi Alonso, having already secured the services of centre-back Dean Huijsen and full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold. Mastantuono would be their third major arrival of the summer transfer window, as they look to strengthen their squad.

The teenage Argentine playmaker has a €45 million (£39m/$51m) release clause in his contract with River Plate. While Madrid were initially hesitant to match this fee, serious interest from PSG and Alonso’s arrival have changed their stance. Reports indicate Mastantuono would prefer to join Real Madrid over other interested parties.

MASTANTUONO’S RISING STOCK

At just 17 years old, Mastantuono has already been called up to Argentina’s national team for the upcoming South American World Cup Qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. This milestone highlights his exceptional talent and potential, which has already attracted interest from Europe’s elite clubs. His technical abilities and vision make him one of South America’s most coveted young talents.

River Plate would prefer to keep their prized asset until at least the end of the year, as Mastantuono turns 18 later this month, which gives the Argentine outfit some leverage in negotiations. However, Madrid’s desperation to get the deal over the line quickly could trump River’s preferences over the final decision.

WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

If Real Madrid can close the signing of Mastantuono this week, they hope to integrate him into the squad as soon as possible for the upcoming Club World Cup. The success of this pursuit will depend on reaching agreements with both the player and River Plate. While personal terms are not expected to be an issue, there could be hurdles in negotiations with the Argentine club, who are holding out for the full release clause amount.

This prospective deal represents another step in Madrid’s strategy of acquiring young talents with immense potential. After finishing as runners-up in La Liga last season, the club’s focus is clearly on rebuilding a squad that will challenge for the title under Xabi Alonso’s stewardship.