Man United target Franco Mastantuono to “wait for Real Madrid” | OneFootball

Manchester United’s interest in Franco Mastantuono has received a decisive blow as the attacking starlet wants to “wait for Real Madrid”, according to an Argentine journalist.

Mastantuono, 17, has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in world football after a series of impressive performances for River Plate, demonstrating a maturity on the ball which belies his years.

United hold a long-standing interest in Mastantuono after tracking the youngster across a number of years. He has drawn comparisons to Manchester City star Phil Foden given his wand of a left foot and technical ability in tight spaces.

A report relayed by The Peoples Person had revealed the Red Devils were ready to trigger the 17-year-old’s release clause – believed to be worth £38 million – this summer as United’s renewed focus on securing the best young talent in world football under INEOS shows no signs of slowing down.

But Argentine report German Garcia Grova (TyC Sports) contends Mastantuono is adamant he will “wait for Real Madrid” as the attacker is happy to remain at River Plate to continue his development.

Translated Tweet: “EXCLUSIVE: Franco Mastantuono WAITS for #RealMadrid. The [starlet] and his entourage made it known to the clubs that consulted his situation.

He is NOT desperate to leave #River and will wait for the club 🇪🇸 until the last moment. In addition, #ManUtd held two meetings but stated that he did not reach the amount of the clause of € 40M

Pablo Longoria, President #OlympiqueMarselle , travelled to negotiate but the refusal was ABSOLUTE “Let’s wait for #RealMadrid , we are in no hurry to leave #River ” was the response they received.”

Grova reveals United have “held two meetings” with their Argentine counterparts but did not match the £38 million release clause.

Olympique de Marseille are also interested in Mastantuono with the Ligue 1 club’s president, Pablo Longoria, travelling to Buenos Aires to initiate negotiations. But he met with an “absolute” stance by the 17-year-old’s representatives – “Let’s wait for Real Madrid , we are in no hurry to leave River  [Plate]”.

The pull of Real Madrid across the globe is unparalleled in football. This becomes even more acute for youngsters in South America where the allure of Spanish life, with its obvious overlaps with a country such as Argentina from a cultural and linguistic perspective, makes Madrid a much more attractive destination than Manchester.

If Los Blancos come knocking, there are few footballers who do not answer the door. And in the case of Mastantuono, it appears this pattern will be repeated, despite United’s obvious interest in bringing the 17-year-old sensation to Old Trafford.

Featured image Marcelo Endelli via Getty Images

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