The Red Devils are keen on reinforcing their squad this summer with signings.
The scramble to sign the most promising gems of South American football has become a constant among the big European clubs. Manchester United, after years of rebuilding, are changing their transfer policy. It is no longer just going for established players, but are also keeping an eye on young players who could mark an era. This strategy is not new. Real Madrid have been doing it for years with names like Vinícius Jr, Rodrygo and Endrick. The English club, meanwhile, seems determined not to be left behind. In this context, Franco Mastantuono appears, one of the most striking irruptions of current Argentine football.
Manchester United have spoken to Franco Mastantuono’s representatives this week
The River Plate midfielder has attracted the attention of several European giants. Graeme Bailey, as relayed by TeamTalk, has reported that Manchester United have already begun talks to explore his signature, although the player’s wish would be to wear white.
Despite this, the English club have not abandoned their interest and have spoken to Franco Mastantuono’s representatives this week. The player’s buy-out clause of €45 million seems high at the moment, but the club’s interest is real. The player, who has not yet turned 18, will not change teams until 2026. However, that hasn’t stopped clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool also keeping a close eye on the Argentine’s situation.
“United have spoken to his people this week. However, the thing with Mastantuono is that although he turns 18 in August, I have had it confirmed to me that he won’t be moving until 2026. United are in the running, but the plan wasn’t for him to move this summer anyway. Real Madrid are in the driving seat, but United are not out of the equation. I don’t think anyone will pay his €45m (£38m) release clause, though. But he really does want to join Madrid, however, we will have to see because there isn’t really room for him at Madrid. I don’t think anyone will pay his €45m (£38m) release clause, though. But he really does want to join Madrid, however, we will have to see because there isn’t really room for him at Madrid. But over the last 10 days, United have definitely held talks with him. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are also interested.”
Manchester United are right to insist on a player who can make a difference in the long term. Mastantuono’s breakthrough in Argentinian football is not smoke and mirrors. He has talent, vision, and that audacity that is not taught. His left-footed profile, passing ability and finishing make him a more than attractive option for the attacking midfield in a 3-4-2-1 formation of Rúben Amorim.
The Argentine could play as an inside forward, behind the striker, with the freedom to move between the lines, generating partnerships and offering impact in key areas. In addition, his age would allow him to adapt without urgency, alternating between starting role and minutes from the bench.
Will Manchester United be able to sign Franco Mastantuono?
Will Manchester United be able to sign Franco Mastantuono?
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But there is also a different reading: is it worth it for the club to invest resources and time in convincing a player who already has his mind set on Madrid? That is where the doubts arise. Football is full of examples of promising players who stagnated because the environment did not offer them stability.
If Mastantuono does not show openness to the Manchester project, perhaps the most sensible thing to do would be to look for someone with the same potential, but more willingness. Moreover, signing a player on a deferred transfer until 2026 forces to modify plans, resources and internal development.
Still, the big boys have to think two years ahead. Amorim, when he arrived on the bench, asked for a younger, more technical and flexible team. Mastantuono fits the bill; it will not be easy to convince him and his entourage, but if the English club manage to plant an attractive sporting offer, with guaranteed minutes and a favourable environment, it would not be impossible to change the destiny that everyone takes for granted. Perhaps it is not a question of competing against Madrid, but of building a proposal that makes sense for the boy. Because in the end, it is not always the one with the most titles who wins, but the one who offers the best path.