Real Madrid look to scupper PSG’s pursuit of Franco Mastantuono | OneFootball

Real Madrid are looking to sign River Plate sensation Franco Mastantuono (h/t Diario AS).

Paris Saint-Germain were in pole position to sign him. Manager Luis Enrique contacted Mastantuno to convince him to move to the French capital.

However, Madrid are now looking to throw a spanner in the works. Chief scout Juni Calafat is currently in Buenos Aires for talks with River Plate’s executives and Mastantuono’s entourage.

The Spanish giants plan to activate his €40 million release clause and allow him to continue his development with his current employers until the end of the year.

The move bears a striking resemblance to Arda Guler’s transfer saga in 2023. Barcelona appeared to be leading the race for the Turkish prodigy before Madrid snapped him up at the last moment.

Mastantuno could follow in the footsteps of Endrick Felipe, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo to secure a move to the Santiago Bernabeu from South America.

Primarily operating as a right-winger, Mastantuono has bagged seven goals and four assists in 19 games this season.

His red-hot form has also earned him a call-up to the Argentine national team for this month’s World Cup qualifying games.

Madrid have already signed Dean Huisen from Bournemouth and are considering activating the buy-back clause for Como star Nico Paz.

Benfica left-back Alvaro Carreras has also been linked with a move to the Spanish capital.