Two people pose in a soccer stadium; one of them is wearing a medal and the River Plate uniform, while the other is dressed in a dark suit and sunglasses.
Florentino Pérez and Mastantuono | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

The step before Mastantuono's signing: Florentino wants to avoid a lesser evil

The President is willing to pay the €60 million clause, but first he will try to lower the cost

by

Alex Moreno

Franco Mastantuono is once again on Real Madrid's radar. The young River Plate talent, just 17 years old, was already closely followed by the club last year. He was very close to signing then, but an unexpected turn halted the deal.

River Plate decided to raise his release clause, which went from 15 million euros to 45 million euros. This considerable increase complicated Real Madrid's plans. Since then, the club has kept a close eye on his development.

Mastantuono is one of the great gems of Argentine soccer. Left-footed, with vision, technique, and maturity beyond his years. His profile fits perfectly with Real Madrid's transfer policy, but paying the full clause still isn't the first option.

River Plate player with a frustrated expression holding his head during a match
Mastantuono with River this season | Real Madrid Confidencial

Florentino Pérez believes that paying the 45 million euros would be a lesser evil, but he wants to avoid it. The club is working on a formula to lower that figure. They want to reach an agreement with River Plate before executing the clause.

Key meeting in Buenos Aires

That's why a key step was taken yesterday. Juni Calafat, Real Madrid's chief scout, traveled personally to Buenos Aires. There, he held an official meeting with the footballer's entourage and River Plate executives.

It was a crucial meeting to unlock Mastantuono's future. Calafat had already been in contact with the player's entourage. This time, the trip and the meeting mark a new phase.

A man in a dark suit and tie poses next to a player in a white and red uniform in a lit-up stadium.
Juni Calafat and Mastantuono | Real Madrid Confidencial

Real Madrid has decided to act now. They don't want other European clubs to get ahead.

A strategic long-term operation

The goal is to finalize the signing this summer. Although Mastantuono wouldn't arrive immediately. The plan is to leave him on loan at River until he comes of age in 2026.

Real Madrid wants to repeat the formula they used with other young talents like Endrick or Vinícius. Sign early, secure the future, and avoid bidding wars.

Meanwhile, River Plate isn't closing the door. They know it'll be difficult to keep him much longer. They also want to get the best possible deal.

Florentino wants to avoid tensions. If there's no reduction, he's prepared to pay the clause. Mastantuono is a clear bet for the future.

The operation has entered its decisive phase.

➡️ First Team

More posts: