Barcelona and Real Madrid have reportedly made their move to land Chelsea target Franco Mastantuono.
According to Bolavip, Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are both making their moves to land Franco Mastantuono, a target for Chelsea, who continues to impress for River Plate.
The 16-year-old is the latest sensation to come out of the legendary Argentine club’s ranks, and European giants are already taking note. Having made a name for himself in the youth ranks, Mastantuono is already a part of the club’s senior roster.
South America is a simmering cauldron of talent, and the Spanish duo have for years cherry-picked some of the best the continent has to offer. One does not have to look far back into the past to recollect how Barcelona beat off stiff competition for Neymar, while Real Madrid secured Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr and Endrick among others.
Chelsea have also sought a slice of the pie in recent years. The likes of Deivid Washington, Andrey Santos, Angelo Gabriel, and Kendry Paez have all committed their futures to the Blue cause. And should they develop as expected, Chelsea might have much to celebrate.
Franco Mastantuono would slot in right alongside the talents at Cobham should he make the move to London. An attacking midfielder who can also be deployed on the right flank, the teenager is a versatile attacker who has adept footwork.
While still young, his talent is undeniable, and there is little reason why he cannot take it to the next level under the right guidance. As things stand, Barcelona have already made their move to land Mastantuono, while Real Madrid are yet to respond in kind. But then, from what we have seen of Los Blancos, they often act swiftly and efficiently. But both clubs have made formal approaches.
The teenager has a rather hefty €45 million release clause, which could derail Barcelona’s pursuit. Chelsea could also be in a similar boat should they fall foul of FFP limits come next summer. Given the already bloated squad, it is imperative that they sell off the deadwood and curate the squad to one that can challenge for titles for years to come.
Beating Real Madrid and Barcelona to Mastantuono would certainly be a statement of intent by Chelsea. Whether that will happen remains to be seen.
