Franco Mastantuono ‘to favour’ River Plate loan for 2026/27 amid Benfica interest | OneFootball

Franco Mastantuono is expected to leave Real Madrid on loan this summer, and despite Benfica’s interest he wants a return to River Plate for 2026/27.

The Athletic reports that the 18-year-old sees a temporary move as the best way to secure more minutes, with River Plate his first choice if he exits the Bernabéu.

Benfica have explored a loan, while Madrid continue to weigh the most suitable destination for the Argentine.

Last season, his first at Madrid, Mastantuono made 35 appearances and scored three goals after a move from River Plate worth about 45 million euros.

At Benfica, he would add another right-sided option, a role he often filled for Madrid, and would compete with Gianluca Prestianni and Dodi Lukebakio.

Even with Benfica keen, the player’s preference could prove decisive, leaving River Plate as the front runner to relaunch his career before returning to Madrid.

Source: Glorioso 1904