Real Madrid has officially announced the signing of Franco Mastantuono, a 17-year-old Ghanaian-Italian Argentine talent from River Plate! The deal, finalized on June 13, 2025, will see the youngster join the Spanish giants after participating in the FIFA Club World Cup with River Plate. He is expected to join the team in August after celebrating his 18th birthday.
A Dream Come True
Mastantuono, who also held trials as a tennis player, will sign a contract until 2031. He has expressed his long-time admiration for Real Madrid, describing the move as a dream come true. This marks the end of the intense competition from other European clubs, particularly Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The Deal Details
River Plate demanded that PSG pay his release clause of €45 million. The deal is reported to be worth around €63.2 million (approximately $72.6 million USD) which includes taxes and fees. This makes it the biggest transfer in Argentine football history.
- € 11,8 million (USD 13,6 million): Spanish tax authorities.
- € 1,4 million (USD 1,6 million): Footballers Union.
- € 0,9 million (USD 1 million): AFA Structural Funds.
- € 3,6 million (USD 4,1 million): Decree 510/2023.
- € 0,5 million (USD 0,6 million): other fees.
What Mastantuono Brings to the Team
Mastantuono is a left-footed attacking midfielder who is known for his dribbling skills and long-range shooting ability. He stands at 1.77 meters and can also play on the right wing. He can take free kicks, too.
Why Real Madrid?
River Plate’s president, Jorge Brito, explained that Mastantuono had made every effort to stay with the club until the end of the year. However, when Real Madrid made their firm offer, the player expressed his desire to join the Spanish side. With dual Ghanaian-Italian citizenship, Mastantuono won't occupy a non-EU spot, becoming the first Argentine player to join the team since 2014.