Franco Mastantuono to Real Madrid: Historic Transfer from River Plate
Buenos Aires – River Plate’s young forward, Franco Mastantuono, has sealed his agreement with Real Madrid, marking a milestone in the history of Argentine football. Sources from the Argentine club confirmed that the signing was finalized after the activation of the player’s release clause, set at 45 million euros. His incorporation into the merengue team is scheduled for mid-August, once he turns 18.
The operation, which includes an additional 15 million euros for tax purposes, becomes the most expensive in the history of Argentine football.Next Steps: Trip to Madrid and Club World Cup
Although his official incorporation into Real Madrid is scheduled for August 15, Mastantuono plans to travel to Madrid after his participation in the Club World Cup. This tournament will begin this weekend and will feature the player wearing the River Plate jersey.
The contract signing took place after Mastantuono completed the medical examination in Buenos Aires, following his participation with the Argentine national team.Debut with the Argentine National Team and Outstanding Season
With just 17 years and 295 days, Mastantuono made his debut with the senior Argentine national team last week, in the victory against Chile (0-1) in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Although he didn’t have any minutes in the 1-1 draw against Colombia, his talent has been evident.
In his first half-season with River Plate, the player born in Azul, Buenos Aires province, has demonstrated his worth with seven goals and four assists in 19 matches. He especially stood out with a free-kick goal in the last Superclásico against Boca Juniors.
Mastantuono, who usually plays as a right winger, is characterized by his dribbling ability, taking advantage of his inverted profile to cut inside.
The soccer player will travel this Wednesday to Seattle, United States, with the River Plate squad, led by Marcelo Gallardo, for the Club World Cup. The team will debut next Tuesday against the Japanese Urawa Red Diamonds.
River Plate is part of Group E of the Club World Cup, along with Inter Milan and Monterrey.
