Napoli ready to offer €50 million for Real Madrid teenage talent; club against the move | OneFootball

Franco Mastantuono’s early months at Real Madrid have been far from straightforward. 

The young Argentine arrived with huge expectations and significant hype, but his impact on the pitch has so far been limited. 

Despite this, Real Madrid are not alarmed. Internally, there is a clear understanding that Mastantuono’s situation is part of a natural development curve rather than a cause for concern. 

However, his slow start has not gone unnoticed across Europe and a recent report from Defensa Central claims that Napoli are prepared to make a move for the former River Plate star.

Napoli willing to go big

According to the report, Napoli are interested in signing Mastantuono on a permanent deal, not a loan, and would even be willing to act during the winter transfer window. 

The Italian club is reportedly ready to put up to €50 million on the table. While that figure would be considered significant in most contexts, it does not convince Real Madrid in the slightest.

The reason is that Real Madrid have no intention of letting Mastantuono leave. The club believe his best football is still to come and expect a clear improvement during the second half of the season. 

Franco Mastantuonois is yet to make an impact at Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

From their perspective, this is not a player to be judged after a few difficult months, but a long-term investment with enormous upside.

Still adapting to the demands

At just 18 years old, Mastantuono is still adapting to a completely new environment. 

He has only recently arrived in Europe, is adjusting to a different style of football, and is learning what it means to play for the most demanding club in the world. 

Those close to the club stress that young players, especially those arriving from South America, require time. 

European football is tactically sharper, physically more intense, and mentally unforgiving. 

Expecting immediate dominance from a teenager who has just left Argentina would be unrealistic. 

Madrid are fully aware of this and are committed to supporting Mastantuono through this phase.