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Real Madrid are nearing an agreement to sign 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono after making a late but aggressive move to secure the River Plate prodigy.
According to Cadena SER (h/t MARCA), a decisive phone call from manager Xabi Alonso played a key role in turning the teenager’s attention away from Paris Saint-Germain and toward Madrid.
Initially trailing in the race, the Spanish club reignited interest just weeks ago after a renewed visit from the player’s agents showed a more cooperative approach. The breakthrough came quickly.
Juni Calafat leads Real Madrid’s renewed push
Chief scout Juni Calafat was dispatched to Buenos Aires to secure the deal, using a strategy similar to the one that brought Arda Guler to the club in 2023. Mastantuono had previously been out of reach due to a disagreement between Real Madrid and his representatives, especially after his release clause jumped from €15 million to €45 million.
This time, Madrid moved fast. With Xabi Alonso directly involved, the teenager is now said to be set on joining the Santiago Bernabeu side.
“A phone call from Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has proved decisive in convincing Mastantuono to snub PSG and move to Spain,” Cadena SER reported.
Club relationship may ease €45m clause
River Plate are insisting on the full €45 million release clause, but Real Madrid are exploring ways to either stagger the payment or negotiate favorable terms. Talks are ongoing, and the relationship between both clubs may help.
River Plate’s president was spotted in the Santiago Bernabeu VIP box earlier this season, which could indicate positive ties that may help facilitate the agreement.
Club World Cup deadline may complicate move
Madrid are reportedly hoping to complete the Franco Mastantuono transfer before the FIFA Club World Cup transfer window closes on June 10. But the timeline is tight, and sources suggest that a summer move might be more realistic.
Mastantuono has already assured River Plate that he will stay until 31 December. His ambition is to play both the Club World Cup and Copa Libertadores with the Argentine side before moving to Spain.
This article was updated 3 weeks ago