Real Madrid have officially announced an agreement to sign teenage playmaker Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, securing one of South American football’s brightest young talents.
The 17-year-old attacking midfielder’s transfer cost the Spanish giants just over 63 million euros ($72 million), according to a statement from River Plate, with 45 million euros directly going to the Argentine club from his release clause. Mastantuono will join Los Blancos for the next six seasons, from August 14, 2025, to June 30, 2031.
Before making his move to the Spanish capital, Mastantuono is set to represent River Plate in the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States this summer.
Real Madrid highlighted his burgeoning talent, noting that at 17, he is already the youngest player in history to play an official match for the Argentina national team, having debuted earlier this month in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chile.
Mastantuono is Real Madrid’s third confirmed signing this summer, following the arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth.
The club has also appointed Xabi Alonso as their new coach, replacing Carlo Ancelotti after a trophyless season.
