Spanish football club, Real Madrid, has signed 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono from Argentina’s River Plate in a deal worth over 63 million euros.
The La Liga giants announced the transfer on Friday, saying the teenage midfielder will officially join the club in August.
“Mastantuono will be a player at our club for the next six seasons, from 14 August 2025 to 30 June 2031,” Real Madrid said in a statement.
River Plate, his current club, also confirmed the deal, explaining that Mastantuono activated his release clause with the support of Real Madrid.
“Thank you, Franco, for your performance and talent. It has been a pride to see you grow at the club,” River Plate said. “We wish you all the best in this new era which comes after the Club World Cup.”
The young midfielder will still feature for River Plate at the FIFA Club World Cup taking place in the United States this summer before moving to Spain.
Mastantuono made his first-team debut for River Plate in January 2024 after coming through the club’s youth academy. Earlier this month, he also became the youngest player ever to play an official match for the Argentina national team, making his debut in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chile.
With this move, Mastantuono becomes Real Madrid’s third signing of the summer. The club has also brought in England right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth.
Real Madrid, who did not win any major trophy this season, also changed their coach. Former midfielder Xabi Alonso has taken over from Carlo Ancelotti, who left after a disappointing campaign.
