The transfers market is sometimes the scene of real wars of influence between European giants. This time, it is the young Franco Mastanuono, river flat prodigy, who crystallizes all lusts. PSG and Real Madrid, two of the most powerful clubs on the continent, wage an intense battle to get attached to the services of this 17 -year -old Argentinian attacking midfielder. If Paris has long believed to hold the rope, Real now seems to have taken the advantage, taking advantage of the preference displayed of the player for the White House.
Mastantuono, River Plate diamond
But who is really Franco Mastanuono? Born in Azul, Argentina, on August 14, 2007, this left-hander of 1m77 quickly established itself as one of the greatest hopes of South American football. In 2024, he literally exploded in the eyes of the general public during the legendary Superclasico against Boca Juniors, by scoring a sumptuous free kick in front of more than 85,000 spectators. Already younger player and scorer in the history of the club, Mastanuono has erased Javier Saviola tablets, becoming the youngest scorer during a boca-river. With River, he already combines around fifty appearances among the pros, totaling several goals and assists despite his young age.
A technical profile and a rare maturity
Doubted by his coaches for his technique, his sense of game and his composure, Mastantuono shines as much by his intelligence on the ground as by his striking quality. Compared to Phil Foden for his liveliness and his ability to energize the defenses, he mainly evolves as a playmaker, but can also be illustrated on the wings. In River, he is considered the leader of the 2007 generation, and his U17 coach does not hesitate to talk about him as “The most promising player has passed to the club for years”.
The choice of heart: a Madrid future?
If PSG has long been optimistic, Real Madrid has accelerated in recent weeks. The Merengues benefited from a weight argument: Xabi Alonso, the new coach, personally called Mastanuono to convince him. Seduced by this speech, the Argentinian would have given his agreement in principle to the Real, who will try to agree with River to avoid activating the 45 million euros clause. However, PSG remains on the lookout, ready to leap if the operation was to cop.
An already international talent
International U20, Mastantuono also has an Italian passport, facilitating a possible transfer to Europe. Already cited among the 50 best young people in the world by NXGN, he was called for the next qualification campaign with Argentina. While waiting to join Europe, he will continue his ascent under the colors of River and will compete in the Club World Cup, the final showcase before the big jump.
