Real Madrid reject Saudi Arabia approach for 18-year-old wonderkid | OneFootball

It has been evident for quite some time now that Real Madrid want to loan Franco Mastantuono to aid his development in the upcoming season.

The 18-year-old was signed from River Plate at the beginning of last season, and he faded away after a bright start under Xabi Alonso.

Mastantuono seemed keen on returning to the Argentine club on loan earlier this summer.

Real Madrid respected the emotional appeal of returning to his former club, but did not believe another year in Argentina represented the best sporting step.

Now, according to Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, Los Blancos have rejected an approach from Saudi Arabia for Mastantuono.

It is quite evident why Madrid quickly rejected the offer, further doubling down on their desire to keep him in a competitive environment.

Real Madrid reject Saudi Arabia approach. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid want Mastantuono developing in Europe

Mastantuono has attracted interest from several clubs, while a possible loan remains under consideration because of the intense competition for places in Jose Mourinho’s squad.

However, Madrid want his temporary destination to accelerate his European adaptation, not put the brakes on it.

Saudi Arabia was therefore always likely to receive the same answer. This is important because a loan must serve a clear purpose.

Real Madrid are not trying to move Mastantuono out simply to reduce the size of the squad. They are trying to put him in a place where he can get guaranteed regular game time at the highest level.

Playing in Italy, where Fiorentina are pushing hard to sign him, or another major European league would allow him to continue adjusting to the speed, tactical demands and pressure he will face at Real Madrid.

Italy the likely destination for Mastantuono. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

A lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia may have financial appeal, but money is not the priority with a player the club consider one of their major long-term investments.

Real Madrid clearly value Mastantuono for the future

In hindsight, it does feel like Real Madrid made the decision to sign Mastantuono a tad earlier than he was ready for European football.

However, there is no doubt that he is one of the most talented young Argentine players coming through, and he could be ready after a loan spell or two.

What Los Blancos need to ensure this summer is that whichever club the teenager moves to has to make him a key part of their plans this upcoming season.

Real Madrid did this very successfully with Endrick and Olympique Lyon for the second half of last season, and that is exactly what Mastantuono needs.

Having been left out of the squad for the friendly against Fiorentina, it is clear that Mastantuono’s immediate future lies somewhere else.

It remains to be seen which club eventually gets the nod to sign the 18-year-old on loan and how he develops during the loan spell.