Real Madrid Near €50M Deal for Mastantuono

Real Madrid are close to signing 17-year-old River Plate midfielder Franco Mastantuono for a fee that could exceed €50 million after taxes and additional costs, making it a potential record transfer for River Plate. Despite strong interest from Paris Saint-Germain and other European clubs, Mastantuono has prioritized a move to Madrid, with the club's chief scout leading negotiations in Buenos Aires. The agreement is expected to allow Mastantuono to remain at River Plate until at least August so he can participate in the Club World Cup, with a possible extension through their Copa Libertadores campaign. Madrid are accelerating the deal partly due to Luka Modric's departure and value Mastantuono's vision, set-piece skills, and maturity. Mastantuono, who debuted for River at 16 and quickly became a starter, has also been called up to Argentina's senior national team and could become their youngest ever debutant. Talks remain ongoing as Madrid seek to finalize the details with River Plate.