Real Madrid’s pursuit of Franco Mastantuono takes unexpected twist | OneFootball

River Plate are standing firm in their negotiations with Real Madrid over teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono.

As per Argentine outlet Diario Ole, the Buenos Aires-based club is making the Spanish giants’ pursuit far from straightforward.

Real Madrid are keen on bringing in the 17-year-old playmaker, but River Plate are refusing to negotiate on the terms of his release clause.

The clause itself is set at €45 million, but the total cost of the operation could rise significantly.

Due to national taxes (13%) and an additional 20% territorial charge, the fee could touch nearly €60 million, and that is before agent commissions and other administrative costs are even considered.

River Plate want clause paid in full

Madrid, as expected, are trying to soften the blow by proposing to pay the amount in instalments. However, River Plate are having none of it.

The club’s position is clear that if Mastantuono is to leave now, it must be through the activation of the full clause in one go.

A lot is left in Franco Mastantuono’s transfer. (Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images)

In fact, according to Ole, River Plate are also looking to use Madrid’s reluctance to push their own agenda. Their aim is to keep the young midfielder until at least December, particularly with the Copa Libertadores campaign in full swing.

Transfer is far from done

Mastantuono is seen as a vital part of the squad, and letting him go before the competition’s decisive phase is not in their plans.

Madrid, on the other hand, still hope to convince River Plate to allow a delayed transfer, one that would see the player arrive in Spain at a later date in exchange for a more flexible payment structure or even a slight discount.

The coming weeks will be crucial. Both clubs are expected to continue negotiations, but a middle ground is yet to be found.

What is clear, however, is that Real Madrid want Mastantuono under Xabi Alonso’s guidance sooner rather than later.