Franco Mastantuono’s signature has been secured by Real Madrid from River Plate in a record-breaking €45m (£38.5m) transfer deal.
The Spanish giants triggered the 17-year-old’s release clause, setting a new transfer record for River Plate and underlining Mastantuono’s meteoric rise through both club and international football. The attacking midfielder will officially join Madrid on 14 August — the day he turns 18 — and has signed a six-year contract with the La Liga champions.
Argentina’s brightest young talent, Mastantuono’s move continues Real Madrid’s recent strategy of investing heavily in youthful South American talent, following the successful acquisitions of players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick. The club views the teenager as a long-term asset, and insiders suggest he will initially be integrated into the senior squad, rather than being loaned out.
Over the past two seasons, Mastantuono has become a household name in Argentina. He made his debut for River Plate aged just 16, becoming the youngest player to appear in a competitive fixture for the club. His influence quickly grew, and he etched his name into club folklore by scoring in the Superclásico against arch-rivals Boca Juniors, becoming the youngest player to do so in the derby’s long and fierce history.
On the international stage, Mastantuono‘s trajectory has been no less dramatic. Just last week, he was called up to Argentina’s senior squad and made his competitive debut in a World Cup qualifier against Chile. Introduced as a late substitute in a tense 1-0 win, he broke the record for the youngest player to feature in a competitive match for the national team — a feat that has only boosted his global profile.
River Plate had hoped to keep hold of their prized asset for at least another year, but interest from Europe intensified after Mastantuono’s international debut. With Madrid willing to meet the full buyout clause, the Argentine club had no option but to part ways with their prodigy.
Speaking to local media, River Plate president Jorge Brito acknowledged the inevitability of the deal: “We wanted to keep Franco longer, but we’re proud of his development and wish him the very best in Spain. He’s a special talent and has represented the River jersey with maturity beyond his years.”
Real Madrid’s recruitment strategy this summer has been a blend of youth and experience. The club recently completed the signings of England international right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and young Dutch defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. The arrival of Mastantuono adds creative depth to a squad already brimming with attacking options, including Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo.
Madrid’s coach on Mastantuono
Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is believed to be a keen admirer of Mastantuono’s vision, technical ability, and tactical intelligence. Though competition for midfield places is fierce, the club believes the teenager will benefit from training in an elite environment and learning from experienced stars like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, should the latter extend his contract for another season.
As excitement builds around the next phase of Mastantuono’s development, Real Madrid fans will be watching closely. The move not only reflects the club’s faith in youth but also signals a clear intent to maintain dominance both domestically and in Europe for years to come.
For Mastantuono, the spotlight will now shine brighter than ever. But if his rapid rise in Argentina is any indication, he’s more than ready for the challenge.
