Real Madrid could hand Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham an unexpected chance in the transfer market this summer. There are fresh claims from Argentina suggesting Franco Mastantuono could leave on loan.
The 18-year-old only recently arrived from River Plate and remains part of Real Madrid’s long-term plans.
According to Argentine newspaper Crónica, though, the Spanish giants are considering sending him elsewhere in Europe for the season. They want him to play regularly and continue his development.
The report says there is no intention of selling the midfielder. Any deal would be a straight loan. Real Madrid want Mastantuono to gain experience before returning to fight for a place at the Santiago Bernabéu.
London clubs in the mix
Crónica claims Fulham are currently one of the main contenders. The report says the Cottagers have already made an approach after a request from Álvaro Arbeloa, who is now in charge at Craven Cottage. And it is not the first time that reunion is suggested.
Arbeloa already knows Mastantuono well from their time together in Madrid’s youth setup. This fact could work in Fulham’s favour if Real Madrid decide familiarity is important when choosing a destination.
Tottenham are also said to have made contact to ask about the conditions of a potential loan. We have covered similar claims from Spain in June.
That link makes some sense on paper. Spurs have enjoyed a good relationship with Real Madrid over the years. Moreover, communication between the two clubs has generally been smooth, which could help if interest develops into something more concrete.
Plenty of clubs are watching
According to the Argentine report, Tottenham and Fulham are far from alone. Juventus, Inter Milan, Benfica, Sporting, Porto, Villarreal, Rennes, Como, Lyon, Monaco, Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig are all said to have asked about the teenager’s situation.
Crónica adds that Real Madrid have not made a final decision. They will choose the club they believe offers Mastantuono the best environment to play regularly and keep developing.
For now, the story should probably be treated with some caution, as it has yet to be backed up by major Spanish outlets.
Even so, if Real Madrid do decide a loan is the right move, Tottenham and Fulham are among the clubs being linked with one of Argentina’s brightest young talents.
