Real Madrid are reportedly on the brink of making a blockbuster move by reigniting their pursuit of Franco Mastantuono, Argentina’s rising star who many are calling the “new Messi.” The club had previously paused talks due to issues with the player’s representatives, but this latest effort appears far more deliberate and promising.
According to Defensa Central, top Real Madrid executives—including Santiago Solari, José Ángel Sánchez, and Juni Calafat—have thrown their support behind the 17-year-old talent. Their endorsement helped convince club president Florentino Pérez to act, with all parties seeing Mastantuono as a rare generational talent.
What sparked renewed interest was a private conversation with the player’s close contacts, who boldly claimed he’s better than Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and even Ousmane Dembélé. Described as more than just a flashy dribbler, Mastantuono is being called a “genius” and is now seen within the club as a top priority.
Madrid have reportedly already spoken to the player via video call—a move that signals real intent. Rather than triggering his €45 million release clause at River Plate, the club plans to make a lower offer of €20–25 million. The idea is to let Mastantuono stay in Argentina on loan for another year or two, following a model used for previous signings like Vinícius Jr. and Endrick.
Inside the Santiago Bernabéu, optimism is high. Despite his young age, Mastantuono has become a central figure in River Plate’s midfield, impressing observers with his intelligence, calmness under pressure, and vision.
Still, Real Madrid are proceeding cautiously. They’ve learned that raw talent alone doesn’t guarantee success at the top level. The club is closely evaluating Mastantuono’s mentality, adaptability, and readiness to handle the demands of European football.
From a business perspective, the potential signing also makes sense. An Argentine prodigy with comparisons to Messi could open doors in major markets, especially in Latin America and Asia.
However, the deal isn’t done yet. River Plate are well aware of the midfielder’s value, and other major clubs—like Barcelona, Chelsea, and Manchester City—could still enter the fray. One advantage for Madrid? Mastantuono is reportedly a lifelong fan of the club and has long dreamed of playing at the Bernabéu, which could tilt the decision in their favor.
With the summer transfer window approaching, all attention now turns to Madrid and Buenos Aires. If the move goes through, Franco Mastantuono could soon join the ranks of Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Rodrygo as part of Real Madrid’s next generation of stars.
