Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, is evaluating the possibility of signing the young Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono, currently at River Plate. At just 17 years old, Mastantuono has stood out as one of the brightest promises in South American soccer, attracting the attention of several European clubs, including Real Madrid.
Franco Mastantuono: Historic Steal from Madrid
Barça's interest in Mastantuono is significant, but his release clause of €45 million poses a financial challenge for the Catalan club, which still faces economic restrictions. To finance this operation, the sale of Ronald Araújo, a defender with a €65 million clause, is being considered, according to El Nacional.
The competition for Franco Mastantuono is intense, with Real Madrid also showing interest in the player. However, recent reports suggest that Madrid has halted their efforts due to the high demands of his agent.
Barça is considering a strategy that would involve signing Franco Mastantuono this summer and leaving him on loan at River until June 2026. This tactic would allow the club to comply with current financial regulations and the player to continue his development in Argentina before joining the Catalan team.
Generational Signing for Barça
The final decision will depend on several factors, including Barça's ability to generate the necessary funds and the progress of negotiations with River Plate and Mastantuono's camp. The possibility of securing one of the future stars of world soccer is an opportunity that Laporta and his team don't want to miss.
In this regard, there are also certain doubts about Franco Mastantuono's adaptation to Barcelona. Although he can play as an attacking midfielder, he stands out most on the right wing, where Lamine Yamal is already present. If this operation is finalized, the Argentine would have to accept a positional change.
In any case, Joan Laporta has already gotten to work, and everything will depend on how the departures progress and also the negotiations with River. Franco Mastantuono is liked, fits in, and is considered a real bargain. But besides Barça and Madrid, he has sparked the interest of half of Europe, who won't hesitate to pay his release clause.