January move for £38m wonderkid dubbed the “next Phil Foden” off the table with Amorim yet to be fully convinced – report

Since INEOS came onboard, Manchester United have shifted their transfer policy from signing superstars stars for big money to trying to sign the next big thing in world football.

Leny Yoro’s signing in the summer was the perfect case in point. More such signings are being planned with the new co-owners looking at the South American market to unearth gems, a region often overlooked by the club.

The Red Devils are reportedly set to sign left-back Diego Leon from Cerro Porteno next summer and another South American ace is also on their radar as per Givemesport.

The Old Trafford side have been long-term admirers of River Plate star Franco Mastantuono with the Argentine wonderkid garnering interest from all across Europe.

United are long-term admirers of Mastantuono

The Peoples Person had relayed that United were mulling over an approach for the attacking midfielder in January back when Erik ten Hag was boss.

However, Amorim does not want the club to rush things as he is yet to be fully convinced and thus, the club is set to abandon their plans of going after the 17-year-old in January in favour of a potential summer raid.

They will instead continue to monitor proceedings and should the wonderkid continue to impress, a concrete offer could be made in the summer.

“Manchester United are on course to continue monitoring River Plate star Franco Mastantuono instead of rushing into attempting to strike a deal which would see the teenager make the switch to Old Trafford during the fast-approaching winter transfer window, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

“GMS sources have been informed that Manchester United have reservations over acquiring Mastantuono midway through the season as his form has not been enough to convince Amorim and other key decision-makers that they should head to the negotiating table, but they could revisit the situation further down the line.”

Real also like the Argentine

The talented teen has completed 90 minutes only once this season, which highlights how much of a raw talent he is and United are well served to adopt the waiting game.

Real Madrid are also admirers of the Argentina U20 international but United are not afraid of losing the race as Los Blancos are also not in a position to pay the midfielder’s release clause of £38 million.

Mastantuono can play as the No 10 and even on the flanks and could be just the type of young player Amorim’s system needs especially with Marcus Rashford’s future up in the air.

However, fans have to wait until the summer to find out whether United can win the race for the “next Phil Foden” who has three goals and as many assists this season.

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