Liverpool have been linked with a number of exciting players heading into January, with River Plate midfielder Franco Mastantuono the latest name on the agenda.
The 17-year-old attacking midfielder is regarded as one of the most exciting talents coming out of South America, with Mastantuono this year becoming River Plate’s youngest-ever goalscorer having broken into the first-team this season.
And now, Liverpool are interested in signing Mastantuono, with the £40m-rated youngster set to move to Europe next year once he turns 18 with a number of the continent’s biggest clubs keen on securing the Argentine’s services.
Yet Liverpool’s interest in Mastantuono could be more overblown than first thought.
Franco Mastantuono of River Plate looks on during a Copa de la Liga 2024 group A match between Barracas Central and River Plate at Estadio Ciudad d...
Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images
According to Sportcenter’s Juan Patricio, Liverpool are yet to make contact with River Plate for Mastantuono, though the rumour of the Anfield side’s interest in the midfielder has ‘exploded’ in recent hours.
Patricio said: “It is a rumour that has exploded in recent hours that Liverpool are interested in Franco Mastantuono. I’ve spoken to sources here at River Plate, and for now, there’s no contact between Liverpool and River Plate.”
With Real Madrid big admirers of Mastantuono, Liverpool already face a battle to sign the 17-year-old heading into 2025, with the reigning European champions having quite the knack of signing top South American talents way ahead of the curve.
And with Liverpool not even in talks with River Plate to sign Mastantuono, the Reds could face missing out on the Argentine wonderkid if they continue to stall on a move for the midfielder, who could be scooped up another European team next year.
Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester City FC at Anfield on December 01, 2024 in Liv...
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES
Who else have Liverpool been linked with going into January?
Liverpool could be set for one of their busiest January transfer windows in some time, and current rumours seem to suggest that youth and planning for the future is on Arne Slot’s side mind.
As well as Mastantuono, Liverpool have been linked with Motherwell talent Lennon Miller, with the midfielder set for a big move next year having attracted some major interest from Premier League sides.
Club Brugge youngster Joel Ordonez is also believed to be wanted by Liverpool, with the defender enjoying a breakout year in the UEFA Champions League as the Reds look to add to their centre-back ranks in 2025.