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Franco Mastantuono: Rising Star Captivates European Giants
The burgeoning talent of Franco Mastantuono, a 17-year-old midfielder from River Plate, is gaining traction among elite football clubs throughout Europe, notably Manchester United and Chelsea.
Considered one of Argentina’s most gifted young prospects, Mastantuono has caught the attention of various Premier League teams, alongside notable interest from Barcelona. Atlético Madrid has even made the journey to Buenos Aires to watch him perform live.
As he approaches his 18th birthday in August, Mastantuono finds himself at the center of speculation. With a hefty release clause set at €45 million (£38 million)—the largest in River Plate’s storied history—his contract is valid until 2026. This significant valuation underscores his potential, as River’s president, Jorge Brito, remains under no obligation to part ways with the player following the club’s impressive £46 million profit reported in last season’s financial results.
A Legacy of Talent from River Plate Academy
Mastantuono’s emergence follows a lineage of successful players from River’s esteemed academy, including Enzo Fernandez and Julián Álvarez, both key figures in Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 World Cup. Recently, Manchester City secured the signing of Claudio Echeverri from the same academy, hinting at River’s mastery in developing young talent capable of flourishing on international stages.
In February 2024, Mastantuono made headlines by becoming the club’s youngest goalscorer at just 16 years, five months, and 25 days old. His promising trajectory continues as he gears up to play a critical role for River during this summer’s expanded Club World Cup in Miami.
Superclasico on the Horizon
Additionally, Mastantuono is set to be a focal point in the upcoming Superclasico, where River Plate will face off against their fierce rivals, Boca Juniors. Known as one of the most passionately contested derbies worldwide, the match is expected to draw a historic crowd, as recent renovations to the Mas Monumental stadium have increased its capacity to 85,018.
River Plate has enjoyed an impressive home record against Boca Juniors, having lost only once in their last six encounters. With his youthful yet impactful presence on the pitch, Mastantuono’s contributions this season—boasting three goals and two assists over 11 appearances—underscore his growing importance in the team’s tactics.
As the football world observes his development, Franco Mastantuono stands on the cusp of potentially becoming a significant player not only for River Plate but also on the global stage in the coming years.
Source
www.skysports.com