FULL STORY: Manchester United and Chelsea Join Race for River Plate Prodigy Franco Mastantuono
🚨 In what could be one of the biggest transfer battles of the summer, Manchester United and Chelsea have both set their sights on Franco Mastantuono, the 16-year-old attacking midfielder lighting up South American football with River Plate.
According to Sky Sports News, both Premier League giants are closely monitoring Mastantuono’s development, and are considering activating his £38 million release clause — a significant figure for a teenager, but one that reflects his immense potential.
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Who is Franco Mastantuono?
Born in 2007, Mastantuono has already made waves in Argentina’s top flight, drawing comparisons to elite playmakers for his vision, technique, and fearless style of play. Despite his age, he has started multiple games for River Plate’s senior team and has shown remarkable composure under pressure.
Scouts describe him as a creative midfielder with a deadly left foot, capable of operating as a No. 10 or even deeper in midfield. His performances in domestic and youth international matches have made him one of the most sought-after young talents in world football.
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Manchester United’s Interest
United, undergoing a rebuild under Ruben Amorim, are targeting high-upside youth as part of their long-term strategy. Mastantuono fits the profile perfectly — a technical, attacking-minded midfielder who could be molded into a cornerstone for years to come.
With the club struggling to find creative consistency, Mastantuono is seen as a future solution — potentially alongside fellow rising star Kobbie Mainoo.
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Chelsea’s Youth-Driven Project
Chelsea, under their aggressive youth-focused transfer policy, are no strangers to splashing big money on future stars. After signing Estevao, Kendry Paez, and Angelo Gabriel in recent years, Mastantuono is the next big name on their South American scouting list.
The Blues are reportedly willing to pay the clause and loan him back to River Plate or a sister club to continue his development — a tactic they’ve employed before.
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What Happens Next?
River Plate are aware they won’t be able to keep Mastantuono for long, but they’re hoping to retain him at least through the 2025 Copa Libertadores campaign. European clubs, however, are pushing for a summer agreement, fearing his value could skyrocket further with continued performances.
Mastantuono’s camp is said to be open to a move but only if the project offers real playing time and a clear path to development.
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The Verdict
A bidding war is looming, and with both Manchester United and Chelsea eager to secure his signature early, Franco Mastantuono could become the next South American superstar to make waves in Europe.
Will he choose Old Trafford
or Stamford Bridge? The summer window will tell.
