Real Madrid initiated contact with Franco Mastantuono in early 2024. Under the guidance of Juni Calafat, Head of International Scouting, Real Madrid has brought in a slew of South American prospects, and SPORT reports that in the coming week, the White Swan could finalize a deal with Franco Mastantuono from River Plate.
The fee for this transaction is reportedly around 45 million euros. Calafat played a key role in the negotiations, having flown to River Plate’s headquarters. Once Mastantuono’s release clause was activated, the decision must be made whether the 16-year-old player will immediately join Los Blancos’ reserve team, Castilla, or continue playing for River Plate’s senior team for a while until he matures.
It is noted that Mastantuono holds an Italian passport, thus making him eligible to play in La Liga immediately, unlike other South American prospects who have to wait until they turn 18 to cross the Atlantic and play in Spain.
Real Madrid is expected to acquire a talented left-footed midfielder who can perform well on both flanks as well as in an attacking midfield role.
