Chelsea have established contact with the entourage of Franco Mastantuono, with an official enquiry likely on the cards for the teenager.
According to Sport via Sport Witness, Chelsea are looking to get ahead in the race for exciting Argentine teenager Franco Mastantuono. The Blues have already established contact with the 16-year-old’s entourage but have yet to open any talks with River Plate, as the player has a €45 million release clause attached.
Chelsea contact Franco Mastantuono’s entourage
Chelsea have found a massive appetite for South American talents since their new owners took over. They have spent vast sums on promising players from Brazil and Ecuador. And now, they have set sights on the Argentine market, with an interest in River Plate teenager Franco Mastantuono.
Mastantuono has caught the eye in only a few first-team performances for River Plate after being promoted to the senior team this season. Some top European clubs are already interested, including Real Madrid and Barcelona, with the duo already making firm enquiries with River Plate.
Mastantuono has a €45 million release clause, which could increase to €50 million in the last 10 days of the window in Europe. Hence, there is a big chase in the background, with Chelsea now looking to get ahead in the race, as they have established contact with the 16-year-old’s entourage.
They have yet to contact River Plate, and if they are keen on the teenager, then the move must happen swiftly. The release clause of that amount may bother some of the interested clubs, with Manchester City the only one reportedly willing to splash the total amount to sign the 16-year-old in the summer.
Real Madrid optimistic; Barcelona out of Mastantuono race
Real Madrid are the biggest threat to Chelsea’s chances in the race for Franco Mastantuono. While Premier League clubs are steadily establishing their network in the South American market, the Spanish giants, alongside Barcelona, have been operating here for many decades now.
Madrid are likely in pole position for Mastantuono and could make a similar move to that of Endrick from Palmeiras. Barcelona are out of the running owing to their financial situation, as they are not in a position to commit €45 million or more on a player for the future.
