Real Madrid will not pay South American prodigy’s €45 million release clause

Real Madrid’s strategy of signing young talents before they fully emerge as stars has become a notable recurring theme in their approach to squad building over the years.

However, the Merengues are mindful of their budget and are reluctant to spend excessively on certain young talents, even if they identify promising prospects.

The most recent case of Leny Yoro serves as a prime example. Despite admiring his high ceiling, Real Madrid did not see it best to overspend on an 18-year-old who was entering the final year of his contract.

Real Madrid holds off on Mastantuono’s €45 million release clause

Now, according to MARCA, River Plate are well aware that, at present, Real Madrid do not plan to activate Franco Mastantuono’s €45 million release clause.

Despite their interest in the player, Real Madrid are currently not prepared to make such a significant financial commitment.

While personal terms have been reportedly agreed, the hefty release clause amount is dissuading Los Blancos from paying the sum in full.

Real Madrid prefer to negotiate a transfer fee with River Plate, aiming to meet the release clause through a combination of fixed and variable fees, rather than paying the full amount upfront.

Given that Mastantuono has no shortage of suitors and is still young enough to continue his development at River Plate, the Argentine club are in a position of power and can afford to hold out for a more substantial offer.

Even so, the youngster’s overwhelming desire to play in the Spanish capital gives Real Madrid a massive edge over other competitors vying for his signature.

Mastantuono’s release clause, which is valued at €45 million, will increase to €50 million in the final days of the transfer window. Still, Real Madrid aim to pay a sum far below those figures.