FC Barcelona has taken a strategic step in the transfer market, looking to strengthen its squad with a promising talent from South America. The Catalan club has focused its efforts on a young Argentine midfielder who has caught the attention of the best European clubs.
The player, who plays in Argentina's first division, has been monitored by Real Madrid for months. However, Barça have decided to step up their surveillance to get ahead in the race to sign him.
The Great Promise of River Plate
Franco Mastantuono, the young Argentinian player, has caught the attention of several European clubs thanks to his great talent. He stands out for his technical quality, game vision and his ability to break lines.
These attributes have allowed him to shine in Argentina's top flight, which has put him on the radar of several teams, including Real Madrid. In fact, the club's head of international scouting, Juni Calafat, has been keeping a close eye on Mastantuono, making his transfer quite likely.
Laporta's strategy: avoiding another blow from Florentino
Barça, under the direction of Joan Laporta, are looking to rejuvenate their squad with young and promising reinforcements. Mastantuono fits this profile perfectly. According to sources close to the club, Barça have already sent scouts to several River Plate matches and have maintained contacts with the player's entourage.
The move by the Catalan club seems to be aimed at stopping Real Madrid in their attempt to sign the midfielder. In the Spanish press, some are talking about a “robbery” by Barça, which has beaten Madrid in the negotiations.
Florentino Pérez's reaction: a complicated transfer
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez was quick to react to Laporta's move. For the Real Madrid director, Barça's move will not be as easy as the transfer of Luis Enrique 20 years ago. On this occasion, Real Madrid remains the favorite to sign Mastantuono, despite competition from Barça.
A market full of uncertainty
Mastantuono's future remains uncertain. Although the player is keen on the idea of playing in Europe, he has not yet made a final decision.
River Plate, for its part, is in no hurry to sell. With a contract until 2027 and a buyout clause of 20 million euros, the midfielder will only leave for that amount.