Real Madrid, one of the eminent football clubs in Spain, has effectively attracted some of the most promising talents from South America to join their ranks at the Bernabeu. Despite the expressed interest from Manchester United, Real Madrid remains optimistic about replicating this success.
The latest young prodigy to capture the attention of Real Madrid is the 16-year-old sensation from River Plate, Franco Mastantuono. Real Madrid is actively pursuing Mastantuono, aiming to outmaneuver competing clubs from England, Spain, and France.
Having scored his debut senior goal in February during a Copa Argentina match against Excursionistas, Mastantuono has showcased his prowess as a playmaker. Additionally, he has made nine appearances in the league, contributing to River Plate’s position, just three points behind the league leaders after 12 rounds of fixtures.
Manchester United, alongside Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, are reported to have scouted Mastantuono. Manchester United already boasts one talented Argentinean youngster, Alejandro Garnacho, who joined the club from Atletico Madrid’s academy at the age of 16.
Real Madrid has a commendable history of nurturing young talents, as evidenced by their imminent signing of Palmeiras forward Endrick upon his 18th birthday in July. Real Madrid’s interest in Mastantuono is evident, as they aim to outshine their rivals in securing his services.
Historically, Real Madrid has established connections with River Plate, notably with the acquisition of Gonzalo Higuain, while former Real Madrid manager Santi Solari also began his career with the Buenos Aires club.
Recent reports from Marca, cited by Football Espana, indicate Real Madrid’s determination to outpace Manchester United, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain in the pursuit of Mastantuono. The competition for Mastantuono intensified after United missed out on Julian Alvarez, who joined Manchester City in the summer of 2022.
In addition to Mastantuono, Real Madrid is also reportedly eyeing Lille center-back Leny Yoro, who has attracted interest from Manchester United. Yoro, represented by Jorge Mendes’ Gestifute agency, has been a regular fixture in Ligue 1 for Lille this season. With his contract expiring in the summer of 2025, Lille anticipates potential bids for the promising defender.