Barcelona Are Keeping Tabs On This Gifted Starlet: One For The Future? | OneFootball

In a recent report, ESPN mentioned that Barcelona are keeping tabs on River Plate starlet Franco Mastantuono. It has been claimed that the Catalan club could face competition in the form of Manchester United in pursuit of the talented midfielder.

Mastantuono’s Impressive Rise In Argentine Football

Mastantuono has come through the youth ranks of the Argentine club and has done well to break into their first team recently. The Argentine sensation has made eight senior appearances for River Plate so far, scoring one goal across all fronts.

The 16-year-old has caught the eye at times with his performances in the final third. At the moment, he is currently one of the most promising young players in Argentine football.

His current contract at the Argentine club will run out at the end of 2025. Therefore, Barcelona could potentially land him on a cut-price deal at the end of this campaign.

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – FEBRUARY 25: Franco Mastantuono of River Plate reacts during a Copa de la Liga Profesional 2024 derby match between River Plate and Boca Juniors at Estadio Más Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on February 25, 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)

Barcelona Are Keeping Tabs On Mastantuono: Is He A Prospect For The Future?

Mastantuono is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can create the odd chance for his teammates in the attacking end of the field. He can even shoot the ball with power from long range. The Argentine whizkid is a technically gifted footballer who has the potential to become one of the best players in his position someday as long as he continues to improve with each year.

Mastantuono is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also operate as a right-sided wide player if told to do so by his manager. However, he is still quite raw and might need some time to settle into life in Spain if Barcelona manage to win the race for his services.

At 16, Mastantuono is undeniably a prospect to watch out for in the future. Therefore, Barca boss Xavi would be wise to go all out to bring the talented youngster on board later this year. However, the Catalan club would have to be patient with his progress before they can promote him to their first team set up in the coming years.

All in all, Mastantuono would be a great, long-term acquisition for Barcelona to pull off at the end of this campaign.