United snubbed as prodigious wonderkid decides to complete move to European heavyweight – Fabrizio Romano

River Plate forward and reported Manchester United target Franco Mastantuono has decided to sign for Real Madrid, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Since making his senior debut for River Plate in January 2024, Mastantuono has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in South America. The attacking midfielder has made 19 appearances across all competitions this term, scoring seven goals and providing an additional four assists in that period.

A previous report covered by The Peoples Person revealed that United were in talks to complete a deal for Mastantuono. There were even suggestions that United were prepared to table a bid that would blow all competition out of the water for the player’s signature.

However, in recent weeks, Paris Saint-Germain appeared to be in pole position for the Argentine. PSG were on course to wrap up a deal for Mastantuono this week but in a late twist, Madrid entered the fray and now appear to have won the race to land the 17-year-old.

Last month, it was claimed that Mastantuono was waiting for Los Blancos to make their move and the player looks set to snub the likes of United and PSG in favour of a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Yesterday, Fabrizio Romano wrote on X, “Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are currently in a battle to get Franco Mastantuono.”

“Paris Saint-Germain have been in advanced talks with all parties involved for days but still nothing signed or done. Real Madrid are in contact with player’s camp, working on it again.”

🚨🇦🇷 Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are currently in a battle to get Franco Mastantuono.

Paris Saint-Germain have been in advanced talks with all parties involved for days but still nothing signed or done.

Real Madrid are in contact with player’s camp, working on it again. pic.twitter.com/QnGhWZdoaI

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 4, 2025

The Italian journalist has now given an update on the situation and it likely spells the end of whatever hopes United may have had of luring Mastantuono to Old Trafford.

“Understand Franco Mastantuono has decided to join Real Madrid!”

“His dream is Real Madrid… and all parties are informed with personal terms in place.”

“Real Madrid will now try to negotiate with River on exit terms instead of paying the clause; PSG remain attentive.”

🚨⚪️ Understand Franco Mastantuono has decided to join Real Madrid! 🇦🇷

His dream is Real Madrid… and all parties are informed with personal terms in place.

Real Madrid will now try to negotiate with River on exit terms instead of paying the clause; PSG remain attentive. pic.twitter.com/CVHr5B0pC1

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 5, 2025

United will now need to explore alternative options as they aim to strengthen their attack for the upcoming campaign and beyond.

Featured image Marcelo Endelli via Getty Images

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