Franco Mastantuono (foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid intensify their pursuit of River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono by sending trusted scout Yuni Calafat to Argentina. PSG are still in the race, but Madrid are confident.
The transfer battle for Franco Mastantuono is heating up, and Real Madrid may once again win the race for one of South America’s brightest prospects. The River Plate teenager is drawing serious interest from Europe’s elite, and Madrid have just made their move.
Yuni Calafat, Madrid’s key scout and trusted figure in Florentino Perez's inner circle, has been dispatched to Buenos Aires to meet with Mastantuono’s camp. When Calafat gets involved, it usually means the club's intentions are serious.
Calafat, who is officially listed as a scout, has become Real Madrid’s South American specialist. His record includes finding and helping secure talents like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Endrick. Perez reportedly relies heavily on his judgment when it comes to young stars from the region.
Paris Saint-Germain are also keeping close tabs on Mastantuono’s situation, but Spanish sources suggest confidence is growing in Madrid. The youngster has a reported €45 million release clause in his contract with River Plate.
Still just a minor, Mastantuono will only be able to move to Europe after his birthday in mid-August. Until then, multiple suitors will try to win him over with long-term plans and promises of top-level football.
Despite being only 17, Mastantuono has already made 61 appearances for River Plate and was recently called up to the Argentina national team for the first time, adding to the buzz surrounding his future.