Real Madrid Plans Offer for River Plate's Franco Mastantuono

Argentinian midfielder Franco Mastantuono, regarded as one of the brightest young talents in football, has attracted widespread interest from top European clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich, but has expressed a strong preference to join Real Madrid. Despite Manchester United and Marseille making approaches, Mastantuono and his representatives have communicated to all suitors that he intends to wait for an offer from Real Madrid and is not in a hurry to leave River Plate. Real Madrid, while initially reluctant to meet the €45 million release clause due to agent fees and other concerns, remain admirers and may revisit the transfer in upcoming windows. There are conflicting reports about Madrid's current relationship with the player's agents and their willingness to pay the full clause, but Mastantuono's desire to wear the Madrid jersey could influence the club's decision. Real Madrid are reportedly preparing to submit an offer for Mastantuono this summer, and club officials see him as fitting their recruitment strategy of signing young South American talent. The player's technical prowess and recent performances, including a standout free kick in Argentina's Superclasico, have solidified his reputation as a future star.