Manchester United are keeping a close eye on 16-year-old Argentine sensation Franco Mastantuono amidst interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona.
According to O Jogo via Sport Witness, Manchester United are interested in Franco Mastantuono and have been scouting him ahead of a potential move in the future. The River Plate youngster’s impressive rise has caught the attention of quite a few top clubs, including Real Madrid and Barcelona, and the Red Devils will not find it easy to land him at Old Trafford.
Franco Mastantuono’s impressive rise at River Plate
Mastantuono was promoted to the River Plate first team at the start of the year, and he has since featured in a total of ten matches for their senior team. The 16-year-old attacking midfielder has made quite a name for himself thanks to his impressive performances at the youth level for club and county.
The teenage sensation has huge potential, and his rise has put him on the radar of some of the biggest powerhouses in Europe. While he cannot leave Argentina before turning 18, there is already a lot of competition for his signatures.
The youngster’s current contract which runs until the end of 2026 has a €30 million release clause. River Plate are well aware of the amount of interest in him and since they have time on their hand, the Argentine club are looking to pen down a new deal with the teenage sensation and increase the clause to €40 million.
Manchester United want Franco Mastantuono
Manchester United are one of the clubs that seem quite interested in his services. The Red Devils are one of the clubs that have been scouting him for a while now. And, as per the report, he is quite high on their list of potential targets.
The English club are expected to focus on bringing young stars to the club under the new part owners, and Mastantuono could be a great signing for their new project. However, it won’t be that straightforward with Real Madrid and Barcelona in the mix.
Manchester United face competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona
Both Real Madrid and Barcelona have already signed numerous young stars from South America, and the 16-year-old is one of their targets. Their scouts rate him highly and are considering making a move. They have managed to strike pre-agreements with clubs in the past for some of their young South American jewels and could look for something similar.
But, with Mastantuono just starting out at the senior level, there is still time. And, Manchester United will look to ensure they get their checks done as soon as possible as they look to beat Real Madrid and Barcelona to his signature.
