Franco Mastantuono has the profile that Real Madrid is looking for: young, talented and a star. And with many possibilities for growth.
That's why the River Plate midfielder, who is only 17 (like Lamine Yamal), has been followed by the Real Madrid technical department for a year.
"He has Real Madrid DNA, he has plenty of character and quality in his game. And he is still a child." The reports couldn't be more favorable.
Franco Mastantuono 2024 - The Perfect Talent | Skills, Goals & Tackles | HD
Real Madrid's intention was for him to continue his development at River Plate in order to sign him when he was 18, that is, next summer.
The idea was to continue in the footsteps of Vinícius, Rodrygo, Valverde and Endrick with this Argentine who is already an idol in his country.
However, the transfer of Mastantuono is one step away from going wrong for the white club. AC Milan has crossed the path of Real Madrid, they didn't want to wait a year and are now tackling his transfer.
Mastantuono's decision was influenced by the difficulties he anticipated in finding a place in the starting lineup. At Milan he knows that he will be a starter from day one.
Milan is Willing to Pay the 41-million Clause
The Rossoneri have reached an agreement with River Plate and will pay the release clause set at 41 million euros.
Real Madrid, however, will not give up on the player until he is officially a Milan player. The club is particularly interested in him due to his quality and the Argentine market. At the moment, they have neglected him as they don't have any Argentine players in the Real Madrid squad.
But the white club has no intention of entering into any bidding. Florentino will make his offer and if River and Mastantuono are interested, fine. And if not, fine too.
Morata is Happy with Milan's Transfer
Mastantuono is a left-footed attacking midfielder who plays a lot in the center of the field. His exceptional performances have attracted the attention of the big clubs. In addition to Real Madrid and Milan, FC Barcelona, PSG and Manchester City have also shown interest.
Florentino Pérez has declared: “We don't act based on what others do, we are very clear about what we want…”
The problem is that Milan will get ahead of them, as seems to be about to happen.
It is understandable that Álvaro Morata is happy with the latest rumors regarding Mantantuono. He is aware that his goal-scoring production will multiply with the young Argentine star at his side.