Madrid isn’t backing down as PSG try to close in on River Plate’s top talent.
Franco Mastantuono appeared all but bound for Paris. PSG had moved swiftly in the last few weeks, with Luis Enrique personally speaking to the River Plate sensation on multiple occasions to seal the deal. Argentine publications like TyC sport have suggested that Real Madrid were Mastantuono’s priorirty, but talks had stalled in recent months with MARCA reporting a breakdown between the Argentine’s agents and Real Madrid.
In a new report from Ramón Álvarez de Mon, Madrid are now re-engaged in the race for Mastantuono. Talks have reportedly accelerated in the last few hours. The club still views the transfer as “difficult,” but they are actively exploring if a late intervention is possible.
Juni Calafat is said to be in Buenos Aires. Juni Calafat was the driver of the Endrick, Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Valverde deals, his presence has historically preceded Madrid’s most high-upside gambles.
PSG might still hold the advantage, but Madrid’s track record of elite South American recruitment—paired with Calafat’s boots on the ground (as well as Santi Solari’s early involement)—means a deal could still be on the table.