Franco Mastantuono: The Argentine Wonderkid Pitching PSG against Real Madrid
River Plate's midfielder Franco Mastantuono has become one of South America's most closely watched prospects, drawing interest from European giants Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Real Madrid's chief scout, Juni Calafat, travelled to Buenos Aires this week for discussions with River Plate executives and Mastantuono's entourage, with Los Blancos prepared to activate his $45 million release clause.
Madrid's plan would allow the Argentine to remain at River Plate until the end of the year, as they did in 2023 with the Arda Güler transfer saga.
The 17-year-old midfielder, who has scored 7 goals and 4 assists in 19 appearances this season, has also received his first call-up to the Argentina squad for World Cup qualifying fixtures in June.
Meanwhile, reliable sports journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that PSG is also pushing to secure Mastantuono's signature.
PSG believes it can leverage its recent European success to convince the young midfielder who has expressed a preference for the French club.
Mastantuono was born in Azul, Buenos Aires Province. He signed his first professional contract with River Plate in August 2023, which included a €45 million release clause.
River Plate's youth manager Martín Pellegrino has praised Mastantuono's left-footed versatility: 'He can operate as a forward, an 'enganche' or a playmaker.'
Assistant coach Pablo Fernández also said: 'His prowess in one-on-one situations and dead-ball scenarios. Mastantuono cites Julián Álvarez, Phil Foden, and Neymar as inspirations for his dynamic, free-flowing style.'
As both Real Madrid and PSG seek his signature, Mastantuono seems destined to follow in the footsteps of Julian Alvarez, Diego Maradona, Carlos Tevez, and Sergio Agüero, potentially securing a high-profile move to Europe in January 2026. Tags: Franco MastantuonoPSGReal Madrid
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