On March 12th, TNT Sports reported Manchester City are in a race with Real Madrid and other clubs to sign River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono.
The 16-year-old is a product of River Plate’s academy and was promoted to their first team earlier this year. He’s clocked in 360 minutes from 10 games, managing an assist in the process.
Monday’s Sport states Manchester City are in the picture, when explaining Barcelona’s plans for the attacking midfielder.
The newspaper says he has a ‘great technical ability’, and is set to become one of the best players around in the coming years.
Barca have been monitoring the Argentina U17 international for the past few months, even before he excelled at the FIFA U17 World Cup in November. The Catalan club’s technical leaders are well aware of his profile, qualities and potential.
Mastantuono’s deal has a €45m release clause, and both his family and entourage are well aware of the La Liga side’s economic situation. Meanwhile, Sport say Manchester City have ‘made a move’ to sign the youngster.
If developments are expected in the coming weeks, Barca are unlikely to make an approach, due to their financial conditions. This could help Pep Guardiola’s side.
The report adds Mastantuono’s own opinion will be decisive in deciding his next destination.
In addition to Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid are also in the race for him.
Online, Sport add Barca are adopting a cautious approach, ‘in the face of a triple offensive’ from Manchester City, Real Madrid and Chelsea.
