Man Utd enter race for Real Madrid wonderkid target

Cameron Smith

• 1 Sept 2024 15:30 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United have reportedly entered the race to sign River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono.

The 17-year-old has been continually linked with a move to Real Madrid in recent months, but Los Blancos have now cooled their interest in the young Argentine.

That is according to Spanish outlet Marca, who report that Real Madrid have decided against pursuing a move for Mastantuono due to constant links with the player.

READ MORE: Premier League summer transfers 2024 - All the Done Deals

The report states that Los Blancos prefer to operate in silence when dealing with South American talent and rumours of a move for Mastantuono have put Real Madrid off a deal.

As a result, Man Utd have now registered their interest in the teenager and are ready to battle Barcelona for his signature.

Mastantuono, who plays as a central midfielder, has made 27 first-team appearances for River Plate, scoring three goals and providing two assists.

DEADLINE DAY: Every confirmed transfer around Europe

His current contract with the Argentine giants runs until the end of December 2026, while his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €3.5 million.

However, Mastantuono reportedly has a €45m release clause included in his deal with River Plate.

Man Utd’s summer transfer business

Man Utd’s pursuit of Mastantuono is unsurprising given their recent transfer activity under the management of INEOS.

Following the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Man Utd have prioritised signing younger players, with Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro and Sekou Kone all joining the club during the summer transfer window.

Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui also arrived at Old Trafford in a hectic few months.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils offloaded 10 first-team players, including Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Donny van de Beek.

In addition, Jadon Sancho departed Man Utd on Transfer Deadline Day and his loan move to fellow Premier League giants Chelsea includes an obligation to buy clause.