Real Madrid secure River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono

Real Madrid have announced the signing of young talent Franco Mastantuono from River Plate. The 17-year-old is currently with River Plate in the United States for the Club World Cup.

Los Blancos have secured Mastantuono’s signature — beating competition from Paris Saint-Germain who were also pursuing his services. The young Argentine will join Madrid in August, right when he turns 18 years old.

Real Madrid have been monitoring Mastantuono’s development for the past two years — moving quickly this month when PSG nearly secured his signature. The player chose Madrid as his primary destination and wanted to complete the Club World Cup with River Plate before moving.

Mastantuono becomes Madrid’s third summer recruit after Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold. In his breakthrough season with River Plate, he recorded four goals and four assists in 12 appearances in Argentina’s top division. The young player also recently made his debut for Argentina national team in a 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Chile.