Real Madrid in pole position to sign 16-year-old prodigy with €45m release clause

As has been the case for many years now, Real Madrid are always on alert to the breakthrough of young talents in South American football.

The reigning champions of Spain and Europe have now become admirers of 16-year-old Argentine prodigy Franco Mastantuono, who plies his trade for River Plate.

Having enjoyed a breakthrough year with Martin Demichelis’ side, the teenage midfielder has emerged on the radars of Real Madrid and several other top European clubs.

Real Madrid in pole position

However, according to Guillermo Rai of The Athletic (h/t Madrid Zone), Real Madrid are the club in pole position to secure the signing of Franco Mastantuono.

However, the update does add that neither Mastantuono’s camp nor River Plate are in a hurry to see the 16-year-old wonderkid leave Argentina for Europe.

It must be noted that since Mastantuono is also in possession of an Italian passport, he does not have to wait until he turns 18 years old to make the switch from South America to Europe.

And while Real Madrid are said to be leading the race, the player’s camp are not in any hurry to secure him a move to Europe right away.

Mastantuono, 16, has a release clause worth €45 million in his contract with the Argentine giants, with the figure set to rise to €50 million in the final days of the transfer window.

Real Madrid, though, are not planning to meet that value and, as per previous reports, are instead offering a €25 million fixed fee plus a good chunk of variables which would take the overall cost of the deal close to the release clause amount.

It remains to be seen whether Real Madrid close the deal for Mastantuono right away or take things slowly. But for now, they are said to be at the front of the queue for his capture.