On April 23rd, Sport and journalist César Luis Merlo stated Manchester United are making moves to sign River Plate rising star Franco Mastantuono.
A week later, Calciomercato’s Daniel Longo reported the Red Devils are in pole position and could make an offer soon.
Later that day, TyC Sports explained Manchester United are ready to pay the midfielder’s €45m release clause in instalments.
Mundo Deportivo now backs up the Premier League club’s interest and provides the latest.
The 17-year-old’s emergence at River Plate has seen several European clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, take notice. He has a contract until December 2026, and it includes a €45m buyout clause.
Mastantuono was promoted to River Plate’s first team in 2024 from their youth system. He made 58 appearances for the senior team, managing eight goals and seven assists in the process.
River Plate president Jorge Pablo Brito has been speaking to ESPN, relayed by Mundo. He explained the Argentina U20 international should continue his development at the club amid several claims linking him to Manchester United and others.
“The important thing is to remain calm with Mastantuono, understanding that he’s 17 years old. He’s not in a hurry, nor is River Plate,” he said.
“The best thing to do when something is in full swing is to let it continue to grow and not touch anything. You have to be very careful and not put more pressure on him than he already has.”
Mastantuono will turn 18 years of age in August, meaning Manchester United can bring him to the UK if they were to secure his services.
