- 21 minutes ago
Who is Franco Mastantuono? The €45m River Plate wonderkid wanted by Real Madrid
Jacque Talbot
- 8 May 2024 16:00 BST
- 5 min read
Franco Mastantuono is latest South American wonder-kid linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Los Blancos have traditionally kept their on the market in the continent, with the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo all making their move to the club immediately from their home nation.
Mastantuono could be the latest to follow, but just who is the teenage sensation?
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What position does Franco Mastantuono play?
Mastantuono can play either down the middle as a No.10 or on the right wing.
How good is Franco Mastantuono?
Mastantuono started playing football at just three, playing for River de Azul, a local club with his father as the coach.
He was soon offered a place in the academy of River Plate but declined, before signing for Club Cemento at 11.
He eventually joined River Plate in 2019, playing for their youth side in the 2019 season.
Four years later, Mastantuono signed his first professional contract, penning a deal with River Place a €30 million release clause.
He soon broke into the first-team and made his competitive debut in January 2024, becoming River Plate's third youngest-ever player.
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Mastantuono plays mostly as an attacker just behind the striker, or inverted winger on the right flank. Head coach Martin Demichelis has put his faith in the 16-year-old, leading to nine appearances in Argentina’s top division this year, as well as him becoming the club’s youngest-ever goal-scorer.
The player has likened his game to Phil Foden of Manchester City and England - someone with profound technical ability and passing.
Mastantuono has dominated within his own age group, leading to chances representing age categories well his years. He debuted for the Argentina Under-17s at 14 and was already honing his skills with the Under-20s by the time he turned 15.
When does Franco Mastantuono’s contract expire?
Mastantuono has a contract that runs until 31 December, 2026.
What clubs are interested in Franco Mastantuono?
So far La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona have been linked with a move for Mastantuo.
What age is Franco Mastantuono?
Mastantuono’s birthday is 14 August, 2007. He is 16 years old.
What is Franco Mastantuono’s Instagram?
Mastantuono’s Instagram is @franco.mastantuono. He has 400k followers at the time of writing.
