Real Madrid Challenge PSG for Mastantuono as Calafat Lands in Buenos Aires

Franco Mastantuono’s rise has captured the attention of Europe’s elite, and the race for his signature just intensified. According to Fenix Multiplataforma and confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid have now joined the pursuit of the 17-year-old River Plate prodigy, going head-to-head with Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.

PSG had been leading the race after opening talks with River, offering €30 million plus add-ons. However, they made it clear they wouldn’t meet the €45 million release clause. River responded firmly: Mastantuono will not be sold before the Club World Cup, and not for a cent less than the clause.

Now Real Madrid have entered the fray with a bold move. Juni Calafat, the Spanish club’s famed talent scout, has traveled to Buenos Aires to accelerate negotiations, following the same strategy he used to snatch Arda Güler from Barcelona in 2023.

The young midfielder, a regular for Argentina’s U-20 team, is reportedly a lifelong fan of Los Blancos. That emotional connection could prove decisive as both clubs push to finalize a deal.

With River holding firm and two giants circling, the battle for Mastantuono promises to be one of the summer’s defining transfer sagas. Madrid’s move signals intent—and perhaps, an edge.