Barcelona among elite clubs monitoring Argentine wonderkid with €45m release clause | OneFootball

Over the years, River Plate in Argentina have produced a host of talented footballers who have gone on to make their name on the world stage.

Now, the South American giants have another exciting youth prospect in their midst who is already making all the right noise – Franco Mastantuono.

Just 17 years old, the versatile attacking midfielder has already become a permanent fixture in the first-team setup for River Plate and is attracting interest from a host of top European clubs.

Barcelona monitoring Mastantuono

Now, according to SPORT, Barcelona have grown to admire Franco Mastantuono and are tracking his progress at River Plate.

Indeed, the Catalans’ international scouting department is keeping a close eye on his development with the Argentine heavyweights.

After all, the 17-year-old has a contract with River Plate until December 2026, with a release clause worth €45 million, making him an intriguing target for the Blaugrana.

Attracting interest from all over Europe. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

However, Barcelona are not alone in monitoring Mastantuono as other European giants like Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Chelsea are also in the race.

Atletico Madrid, too, are in the race and recently sent representatives to Argentina to watch the teenager in action.

Barcelona transfer unlikely

Despite Barcelona’s interest, seeing Mastantuono in the Blaugrana colours may be complicated.

Not only do the Catalans face fierce competition from their European rivals, but also their current financial constraints and the depth in midfield available to Hansi Flick make the signing difficult.

In the German coach’s system, players such as Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, and Gavi already occupy the attacking midfield role, leaving limited room for further additions.