Man United to ‘Hold Talks’ to Sign 17-Year-Old Wonderkid | OneFootball

Manchester United Target Franco Mastantuono Despite Real Madrid Dream

Talks Underway for Next South American Star

Manchester United have made their move. The club is in talks with 17-year-old River Plate sensation Franco Mastantuono, according to a report from TEAMtalk, who credit journalist Graeme Bailey with the update.

It’s a bold move, given Mastantuono’s apparent desire to play at the Bernabéu. But United are no strangers to South American scouting, having already signed Paraguayan teenager Diego Leon earlier this year. This time, they’re challenging Real Madrid directly — and they may not be alone.

Photo: IMAGO

Madrid in Pole Position, but Door Remains Ajar

Despite United’s contact with Mastantuono’s representatives, Real Madrid remain favourites to land the midfielder. Bailey told United in Focus: “United have spoken to his people this week… Real Madrid are in the driving seat, but United are not out of the equation.”

Interestingly, Mastantuono won’t be moving until 2026, even though he turns 18 in August. That provides a rare window for United and others — including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool — to persuade the Argentine that his future lies elsewhere.

Madrid’s midfield is congested, and that could work in United’s favour. “There isn’t really room for him at Madrid,” Bailey added, hinting that the teenager’s route to first-team football might be clearer in Manchester.

Hype Justified by Star Performances

The praise for Mastantuono has come from credible voices. River Plate boss Marcelo Gallardo is understandably cautious: “What we have to do is support him; he’s a kid who has his feet on the ground, but it’s not a bad idea to support him and make him feel like he has to keep growing.”

But others have been far more bullish. Former Argentina midfielder Matias Almeyda didn’t hold back: “After Messi, another one will appear, and his name is Franco Mastantuono.” Strong words — perhaps hyperbolic — but they speak to the excitement around this left-footed playmaker.

Photo: IMAGO

With four goals and four assists in his last seven appearances, Mastantuono is showing end product to match his potential. Described by Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez as “an incredible player” and “a star”, his stock is only going up — as is his price.

Leipzig reportedly want €80 million for Xavi Simons, but Mastantuono’s release clause stands at €45m (£38m). That might be a step too far for most clubs in 2025, but not necessarily in a long-term play, especially if United want to get ahead of the queue.

Strategic Play for Future Midfield Control

While the temptation at Old Trafford is often to seek ready-made stars, this would be a smart shift in approach — investing early in a talent before he becomes unattainable. With midfield overhaul still a necessity and question marks lingering over Casemiro, Eriksen, and others, this could be the kind of forward-thinking decision United haven’t made often enough in the past decade.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The news that the club is actively pursuing Franco Mastantuono brings cautious excitement. It’s no secret that Old Trafford has lacked youthful creativity in midfield. Watching clubs like Real Madrid hoover up global talent — Endrick, Arda Güler, and now potentially Mastantuono — has been frustrating. But United making contact is a welcome sign of ambition.

Of course, it’s hard not to be wary. We’ve seen United miss out on similar players in the past due to dithering or poor timing. But the club speaking to Mastantuono’s representatives, especially so far in advance of a potential 2026 move, suggests a more proactive approach under INEOS.

Fans should be realistic — he clearly dreams of playing for Madrid. But football changes quickly, and with Madrid’s midfield already stacked, game time may be easier to find in Manchester. If Mastantuono wants a clearer path to development and first-team football, United could offer a serious case.

The next two years will be key. If United want to be seen as an elite destination again, they must win battles like this — not just with chequebooks, but with a vision players believe in.