Real Madrid Are Keen On Signing This River Plate Player: Next Enzo Fernandez? | OneFootball

La Liga club Real Madrid are interested in getting a deal for River Plate player Franco Mastantuono in the summer transfer window, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo. The club believe that the youngster has the potential to become a star in the near future.

However, the Whites aren’t alone in the race for the Argentine. The likes of Barcelona, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, SL Benfica, and Inter Milan have also registered their interest and might be exploring ways to lure away the midfielder.

Franco Mastantuono’s journey so far

Franco Mastantuono‘s family wanted him to pursue a career in Tennis but he followed his dream of becoming a footballer. His impressive stint with River de Azul earned him a contract from River Plate. He was promoted to the senior team last season.

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – FEBRUARY 25: Franco Mastantuono of River Plate reacts after missing a chance to score during a Copa de la Liga Profesional 2024 derby match between River Plate and Boca Juniors at Estadio Más Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on February 25, 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)

The 16-year-old has been convincing enough despite having played only 10 games this season so far. In those many games, he mainly started as an attacking midfielder but also operated on the right wing whenever needed. He has one goal to his name, which came against Excursionistas last month.

Mastantuono is rated highly in the Argentine league and is often lauded for his abilities on the ball. He is good at making plays and dribbling in the middle. He is also equipped well to extract goals from free-kicks and his striking ability cannot be ignored.

Real Madrid have been scouting young players from South America and signing them to nourish them. Their alleged interest in Franco Mastantuono is understandable. The youngster is often termed as the next Enzo Fernandez, who became a star after his performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

However, River Plate are all set to get a new contract signed by Mastantuono which will see him stay until 2025. The contract will have a release clause of €50 million. Hence, the Whites might hesitate to spend this much for the player.