Juni Calafat has become one of the most important men at Real Madrid. His experience has earned him Florentino Pérez's trust. He was key in signings such as Vinícius, Rodrygo, or Valverde.
His trips and decisions have changed Bernabéu's future. He not only identifies talent, but also negotiates with great skill. He has total freedom to act as he sees fit.
In recent weeks, he has sped up several deals. Huijsen, Alexander-Arnold, and Xabi Alonso bear his signature. Now he's focused on a move that's more special than all the previous ones.
Juni Calafat travels to Argentina with a clear goal
This time his destination has been Argentina, a country he traveled to in the last few hours. The goal is significant: to close a strategic signing. It's about a prospect who's only 17 years old.
Many compare him to Messi because of his style and dribbling. Left-footed, agile, with great vision of the game. At River Plate, he's already making a difference.
Besides Real Madrid, there's another major contender: PSG. The French also want to secure his services as soon as possible. The competition is very much alive.
Real Madrid moves ahead of PSG for Mastantuono
We're talking about Franco Mastantuono, a young talent from River Plate. In a short time, he has caught the attention of the world's top coaches. His progress is spectacular.
For days, PSG seemed to have everything agreed with the player's camp. There was even talk of a possible trip to Paris. Calafat's trip has changed everything.
According to Argentine sources, Mastantuono has already made his choice. He wants to wear white and follow the path of other South Americans. His decision is made: he prefers to play for Real Madrid.
Mastantuono's signing will cost €45 million
The deal is very advanced. Real Madrid will pay €45 million ($45 million) to secure his rights. It's a major investment for a 17-year-old boy.
The plan is for him to join gradually. He can start at Castilla and adapt to the European pace. His future is with Bernabéu's first team.
Besides gaining talent, Madrid manages to stop its rival. Florentino sees this deal as a double victory over PSG. He doesn't want to lose more ground in Europe.
Everything suggests the signing will become official in a few weeks. Juni Calafat keeps in daily contact with the player's family. The signing could happen before the end of June.
Franco Mastantuono represents the future of Argentine soccer. Real Madrid wants to make sure that future is written in white and with a Spanish accent.