Real Madrid Revive Interest in Franco Mastantuono as Solari Convinces Florentino with Messi Comparison
In a shocking turn of events, Real Madrid has reignited their pursuit of young Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono, with Santiago Solari playing a pivotal role in convincing club president Florentino Pérez to make a move for the River Plate star. According to sources, Solari has been instrumental in changing the club’s stance on the player, likening him to a young Lionel Messi.
As reported by Defensa Central, Solari has been pushing hard for the signing, telling Florentino that Mastantuono is a similar version of Messi at the same age and has the potential to become a "world star". This has sparked renewed interest in the player, despite initial doubts about the feasibility of the transfer.
The news comes after Paris Saint-Germain had seemingly accelerated their own pursuit of Mastantuono, but according to Defensa Central, Real Madrid are now preparing a last-ditch effort to alter the talks between the player and Qatar. The club had initially put the brakes on the transfer, but Solari’s enthusiasm for the player has led to a 180-degree turn in the club’s stance.
Mastantuono is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in South American football, with a contract that runs until December 2026. Defensa Central reports that the player is unlikely to leave River Plate before next year, but Real Madrid believe they can secure a generational signing if they can negotiate a deal.
The main stumbling block for Real Madrid is the reported €45 million transfer fee, which is considered steep by the club. However, Defensa Central claims that the club is exploring alternative formulas to bring the player to the Bernabéu. The fear is that River Plate and Mastantuono’s representatives may try to increase his release clause to €60 million, a move that would make the transfer even more complicated.
Solari’s influence on the transfer is significant, as Defensa Central notes that this is his most high-profile intervention in a transfer deal since his return to the club. The Argentine coach’s comparison of Mastantuono to Messi has clearly resonated with Florentino, and it remains to be seen whether Real Madrid can secure the signing of this highly-rated young talent.
As the transfer saga unfolds, one thing is clear: Real Madrid are serious about signing Franco Mastantuono, and Defensa Central will continue to provide updates on this developing story. With Solari’s backing and the club’s renewed interest, Mastantuono’s future is set to be a major talking point in the coming weeks.
