Real Madrid Turn Up the Heat in Race to Sign Argentina’s Teen Sensation Franco Mastantuono

Real Madrid are ramping up their efforts to land River Plate’s teenage wonderkid Franco Mastantuono — and newly appointed boss Xabi Alonso has already stepped in personally to help seal the deal. The 17-year-old is at the center of a high-stakes transfer tug-of-war, and Madrid are pushing hard to bring him to the Bernabeu in a move reportedly worth €45 million ($51.4 million).

A Real Madrid representative is currently in Buenos Aires trying to finalize the agreement, sources have told ESPN. While Paris Saint-Germain have been working behind the scenes for weeks and even came close to securing his signature, Mastantuono’s camp has delayed any commitments with PSG — clearly waiting to see what Madrid bring to the table. 

And Madrid are definitely bringing more than just interest. The club’s chief scout, Juni Calafat, recently held an important meeting with Mastantuono’s entourage, signaling that the La Liga giants are serious about getting the deal done. The midfielder is said to be open to joining the Spanish side, who are keen to complete the transfer before they head to the United States for the Club World Cup, where they open their campaign against Al-Hilal on June 18 — just a day after River Plate take on Urawa Red Diamonds. 

What's Special About Franco Mastantuono?

What makes this move even more significant is Mastantuono’s growing reputation back home. Already being called the “New Messi” for his dazzling feet, vision, and knack for the spectacular, the Azul-born attacker has made more than 60 senior appearances for River Plate — a ridiculous number for someone born in August 2007. He’s starred in Argentina’s top division and even made a name for himself in the pressure-cooker Superclasico against Boca Juniors, where he curled in a sublime free-kick that made fans and scouts alike sit up and take notice. 

Now, to add more weight to his growing legend, he’s been called up to Argentina’s senior national team — a move that could see him become the youngest player to represent the Albiceleste since Diego Maradona. 

A source close to the situation admitted to ESPN that Madrid aren’t over the finish line yet, but said the club are now all-in on signing the teen sensation. While PSG remain in the race, Madrid’s latest push — including Alonso’s personal involvement — shows they’re not planning to lose out. It’s a gamble, sure. But if Mastantuono lives up to even half the hype, this could be yet another masterstroke from a club that’s made a habit of betting early on generational talents.