Real Madrid teenage gem nearing loan exit after omission from squad list to face Fiorentina | OneFootball

Franco Mastantuono is on the verge of leaving Real Madrid on loan after being left out of Jose Mourinho’s squad for Saturday’s pre-season friendly against Fiorentina in Austria, reports AS.

While Dean Huijsen misses the trip through injury and Antonio Rudiger continues to build his fitness, Mastantuono’s absence has a different explanation.

According to sources at the club, the Argentine has remained in Madrid because a temporary move is now considered imminent.

No clear path for regular minuges

Mastantuono has struggled to establish himself since arriving from River Plate last summer. Although he featured regularly during the early part of last season under Xabi Alonso, his role gradually diminished.

He finished his debut campaign with around 1,500 minutes across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing one assist, a modest return for a player who cost Real Madrid more than €60 million.

On his way out. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

Increased competition accelerates exit

The outlook for this season became even more challenging as Madrid strengthened the squad during the summer.

The arrival of Bernardo Silva has increased competition for attacking midfield positions, while the expected signing of Yan Diomande would further reduce Mastantuono’s chances of earning consistent playing time under Jose Mourinho.

Both the player and the club believe a loan move offers the best opportunity for his development, allowing him to play regularly while continuing his adaptation to European football.

Italy leading the race

Mastantuono’s next destination has not yet been confirmed, but several clubs remain interested.

Mastantuono could be Serie A-bound. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Italian sides appear to be leading the race, with Fiorentina, AS Roma and AC Milan all having explored the possibility of signing the Argentine on loan.

In England, Fulham have also expressed interest after manager Alvaro Arbeloa identified Mastantuono as a player he would like to add to his squad.

A return to River Plate was discussed but has been ruled out by Real Madrid, who believe continuing his development in one of Europe’s top leagues is the best path for fulfilling the potential that prompted the club to invest heavily in him last year.

It now seems only a matter of time before Mastantuono’s loan exit is finalised.