“Really Special”- £40m midfielder Spurs are reportedly trying to sign is one of the best in the world. Romano report
Tottenham and Manchester United Target River Plate Star as Summer Transfer Battle Looms
Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are expected to be highly active in the upcoming summer transfer window as they look to bounce back from underwhelming domestic campaigns.
Despite being two of the Premier League’s traditional heavyweights, both clubs have struggled this season—Spurs sit 16th, while United are only slightly better off in 14th. Though both teams remain in contention in the Europa League semi-finals, major squad improvements are needed.
One name attracting attention from both sides is River Plate’s teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono. The 17-year-old Argentine has been making headlines following a stunning free-kick goal in the high-profile Superclásico against Boca Juniors.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has shed light on the growing interest in Mastantuono, naming Chelsea and Manchester United among the English clubs closely monitoring the player. In a recent video, Romano praised the youngster’s skill and confirmed a significant release clause tied to his contract.
“Mastantuono is one of the most talented young players in the world right now,” Romano said. “His left foot is special. There’s a release clause in the region of £40–41 million plus taxes, and that’s likely the only way River Plate will consider letting him go.”
Romano also revealed that Real Madrid had held discussions about Mastantuono but have yet to move forward, dissatisfied with the financial terms currently on the table.
“Chelsea, Manchester United—they’re all well-informed on his situation,” he added. “It’s an open race. To get a deal done, you’ll need to pay the clause, convince the player, and also reach terms with his representatives. It’s a complex deal that requires careful structuring.”
What Franco Mastantuono Offers Potential Premier League Suitors
Mastantuono is already proving himself to be a generational talent. At just 17, he’s amassed over 50 senior appearances for River Plate, scored seven goals, provided five assists, and lifted the Argentine Supercup.
Primarily deployed as a No. 10, he’s also capable of operating on either wing, offering valuable versatility. Football Talent Scout’s Jacek Kulig has even likened him to former Real Madrid and Colombia star James Rodríguez, giving him a rare 10/10 rating for world-class potential.
Described as a creative force with top-tier technical ability, Mastantuono excels in dribbling, vision, and short-to-mid-range passing—traits that could make him a dynamic addition to the Premier League.
With interest heating up, the race to sign Mastantuono could be one of the summer’s biggest transfer storylines.
