Real Madrid have reportedly sealed a blockbuster deal to sign River Plate’s 17-year-old prodigy Franco Mastantuono, according to sources in Argentina and Spain.
Picture of MastantuonoThe only remaining question is whether the young attacking midfielder will join the Spanish giants before or after the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Hailed as one of South America’s brightest talents, Mastantuono has been a long-term target for Real Madrid.
The 17-year-old, who holds dual Argentine-Italian citizenship, made history as River Plate’s youngest-ever goalscorer and has since amassed 55 first-team appearances, contributing four goals and two assists this season.
His stunning 25-yard free-kick against Sarmiento in July 2024 drew comparisons to a young Lionel Messi, though his physicality and versatility in central midfield mark him as a unique prospect.
Real Madrid’s head scout, Juni Calafat, spearheaded negotiations in Buenos Aires to secure the deal, with the club prepared to trigger Mastantuono’s €45 million (£38.5m) release clause—the highest in Argentine football.
The timing of Mastantuono’s arrival remains uncertain. Real Madrid, now managed by Xabi Alonso, are keen to integrate the teenager for the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States, which offers a record $1 billion prize pool.
However, River Plate is reluctant to part with their star before their own Club World Cup and Copa Libertadores campaigns, potentially delaying his move until the winter transfer window.
Sources suggest Real Madrid may opt for an Endrick-style arrangement, signing Mastantuono now but allowing him to stay with River Plate until early 2026.
His Italian passport, which bypasses non-EU restrictions, ensures a smooth transition to LaLiga.
Xabi Alonso reportedly played a key role in convincing Mastantuono, personally contacting the player to outline his vision for the club. Sporting director Santiago Solari, a former River Plate star, also helped sway the youngster, giving Madrid an edge over rivals like Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich.
This signing underscores Real Madrid’s strategy of investing in young talent to bolster their squad.
His recent call-up to Argentina’s senior squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers highlights his rapid rise, and a move to Madrid could see him follow in the footsteps of Argentine greats like Gonzalo Higuain.
Real Madrid fans can look forward to welcoming a generational talent, whether he arrives this month or in 2026.
Stay tuned for updates as this transfer saga develops.
Sources: TyC Sports,
