Manchester United reportedly face competition from cross-city rivals Manchester City for Argentine starlet Franco Mastantuono, one of world football's most in-demand talents.
Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are also eyeing Mastantuono amid a meteoric rise at River Plate, where he's ripping it up with performances that show maturity beyond his years. The 17-year-old is already a first-team regular at the Estadio Monumental and a move to Europe is expected to be on the agenda.
CaughtOffside reports that Ruben Amorim views the 10-cap Argentina U20 international as a 'key piece in his plans to rejuvenate United's squad' and is 'pushing' for a deal. But City have joined the race and are known for a more "aggressive approach" in the market, which could be a massive problem for the Red Devils.
Man Utd and Man City Want Mastantuono
A move to Madrid feels likeliest outcome
Mastantuono
United made a statement in last summer's transfer window by winning the race for the highly-coveted French defender Leny Yoro at the expense of Madrid. Even before Amorim arrived in November, their squad rebuild was centred around a more youthful approach, and Mastantuono would be another teenage acquisition under INEOS' sporting control.
City also need an overhaul after finishing the season trophyless and looking a shadow of their usual dominant selves. Pep Guardiola often gets his man, but the Cityzens usually figure out their price for a player and don't go any higher than that.
The 'incredible' Mastantuono has a release clause of €45m (£38m) and he's expected to stay at River Plate despite the strong interest in his services, particularly from Real Madrid. Should he depart, the Santiago Bernabeu is his favoured destination, but he isn't likely to do so this summer as he's still yet to turn 18.
Mastantuono in Argentine Primera Division this season
Appearances:
Goals:
Assists:
Big chances created:
Possession won (final third):
Balls recovered per game:
Successful dribbles:
Ground duels won:
Atletico are thought to be preparing a €30m (£25m) bid for the attacking midfield gem, but one would imagine the player remaining in Argentina for next season. Los Millonarios are also considering raising the release clause amid the European tug-of-war that could take place between rivals England and Spain.
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All statistics courtesy ofSofaScore- correct as of 19/05/2025.