According to reports, Manchester United and two other clubs have made an ‘offer’ to sign River Plate starlet Franco Mastantuono.
The 17-year-old has emerged as one of the best young talents in South America as he has four goals and two assists in his 13 appearances this season.
The versatile attacking midfielder has been deemed the ‘Argentinian Phil Foden’ and a recent report claimed Man Utd are ‘considering meeting his release clause’, which is set at 45 million euros (£38m).
Man Utd need to be active during this summer’s transfer window, with significant improvements needed as Ruben Amorim’s side could finish 17th in the Premier League this season.
The Red Devils would make a big statement if they sign Mastantuono as a report in Argentina claims Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have also made ‘offers’ for the talented teenager.
Man Utd, Real Madrid and PSG are ‘closely following’ Mastantuono with River Plate ‘fearing that a significant offer for the left-footer could emerge and land him in the next transfer window’ amid his release clause.
Despite this, River Plate’s general secretary, Stefano Di Carlo, claims they have already decided to keep the midfielder this summer.
“Mastantuono is staying at River Plate for the entire year, that’s a given. There are constant questions, but the focus is on River Plate.”
Mastantuono’s situation could be taken out of River Plate’s hands if his release clause is met, but they are ‘their next objective is to secure a renewal of his contract, which expires in December 2026, and they will seek to increase the clause even further’.
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Man Utd also face competition from Man City with Spanish outlet Fichajes claiming they are ‘preparing a super offer’ with head coach Pep Guardiola ‘in love’.
‘Among the clubs that have their eyes on the attacking midfielder, Manchester City stands out, where Pep Guardiola sees Mastantuono as a future star who would fit perfectly into his style of play.
‘The English club’s sporting directors are seriously considering the possibility of making a considerable offer to secure his signature, beating other major clubs who are also closely monitoring the Argentine prodigy.
Franco Mastantuono remains focused on his present with River Plate, where he continues to accumulate quality minutes and grow by leaps and bounds.
‘However, the offers coming from Europe suggest that his future will soon lie on the Old Continent, and Manchester City seems willing to do whatever it takes to be the chosen one in this promising race for his talent.’
