Franco Mastantuono is officially a Real Madrid player. The club has announced the signing of the 17 year old Argentine gem from River Plate. He has signed a six year contract, keeping him at the club until 2031, and arrives as part of Real Madrid long term vision.

The Real Madrid club moved quickly in the market to secure the player signing, beating out several other teams who were also interested in him. River Plate demanded the clubs pay the full release clause, set at $51 million.

The Biggest Transfer in Argentine Football History

According to River Plate, the total value of the deal is $72.6 million, making Mastantuono the most expensive transfer in the history of Argentine football. The payment breakdown is as follows:

• $13.6 million: Spanish tax authorities
• $1.6 million: Argentine Players Union
• $1 million: AFA Structural Funds
• $4.1 million: Decree 510/2023
• $0.6 million: Other fees

A key trip by Juni Calafat to Buenos Aires played a crucial role in sealing the transfer. The Madrid scout followed a similar strategy to the one used in the signing of Arda Güler, personally convincing the player entourage and securing his commitment to Los Blancos.

Building for the Future: Madrid Aims to Regain Its Hegemony

With Mastantuono arrival, Real Madrid continues to strengthen its well known policy of signing top young talents from around the world. Born in 2007, the Argentine winger is considered one of the most gifted players of his generation. He recently made history by becoming the youngest player to debut with Argentina senior national team, featuring in a match against Chile.

His addition fits into the club long-term strategy of securing its future by investing in players with extraordinary potential from an early age.

Argentina Brightest New Star

Mastantuono has already showcased his talent at River Plate, where he became a regular starter despite his youth. He can play as a right winger or attacking midfielder, often drifting inside from the flank to take advantage of his powerful left foot. He also frequently drops deeper to help link up play.

One of his standout qualities is his superb shot technique. Just two months ago, he scored a stunning free-kick goal in the Superclásico against Boca Juniors, becoming the youngest player in history to score in Argentina most iconic derby.

Despite his age, Mastantuono already displays a maturity rarely seen in players of his generation. His physical development, combined with his technical skill and composure, has allowed him to adapt quickly to the intensity of Argentine football unlike the typical profile of a lightweight, speedy winger.

This unique combination explains why he broken into the elite level so early and why Real Madrid didn’t hesitate to make a major investment in his future.