In a major development, journalist Jorge C Picon (h/t RM4Arab) reports that Argentine sensation Franco Mastantuono wants to play for Real Madrid.
Mastantuono, 16, is one of the most sought-after young prospects in football following his breakthrough at River Plate this season.
The young versatile midfielder has already broken several records in his short stint with the River Plate senior setup and is tipped for greater things.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are among the clubs that have been interested in signing the teenager, whose contract includes a €45 million release clause.
Now, as per the aforementioned report, Mastantuono has chosen Real Madrid and is ready to give preference to the Merengues over his other suitors.
There have been contacts established between the club and the player’s entourage to transmit their interest and get to know the youngster and his camp better.
And the response that Los Blancos have received has been very positive and it has been learned that Mastantuono has informed those around him that he wants to join Real Madrid wants his entourage to prioritise any offer from the Whites.
Real Madrid are aware of Mastantuono’s preference and believe that it will make negotiations with River Plate much easier.
As mentioned earlier, the 16-year-old has a release clause worth €45 million in his contract with the Argentine giants, but the Merengues hope to reach an agreement for a lower sum.
As such, it is being claimed that Los Blancos could apply the ‘Endrick formula’ with the signing of Mastantuono as well.
In essence, the idea would be for Real Madrid to pay the teenager’s transfer fee in two parts: fixed and in variables.
In addition, the newly-crowned La Liga champions would also allow Mastantuono to continue at River Plate until he turns 18 (August 2025).
Part of these variable payment clauses would be based on participation, with which Real Madrid would have some guarantee that the player would continue to have minutes.
The strategy has worked out great with Endrick at Palmeiras and the idea would be to repeat it with Mastantuono’s arrival as well.