According to reports, Mastantuono’s €45 million release clause is proving very tempting for European clubs. He performs better on the right side of the pitch.

Franco Mastantuono continues to shine brighter each day for River Plate and Argentine football. This left-footed talent, born in 2007 and the same age as Lamine Yamal and Estevao (two other world-class talents), has now become the star of Argentina’s league. After Enzo Fernández’s (one year older) transfer to Manchester City last winter, Mastantuono broke into River Plate’s starting lineup and quickly became the team’s star.

Under Marcelo Gallardo’s guidance, Mastantuono has undergone a remarkable transformation in his playing style. Gallardo has moved him from central midfield, where he excelled last season, to the right wing. In this position, with diagonal runs into the box, Mastantuono has become more dangerous. For example, against Gimnasia, he scored a spectacular goal by starting his run from the right and finishing in the box.

In the Superclásico against Boca Juniors at El Monumental, he delivered a stunning performance. His exceptional free-kick goal from distance, which found the top corner, reminded everyone of the best moments from young stars in this historic rivalry. At 17, Mastantuono became River Plate’s youngest ever goalscorer in Superclásico history.

A few months ago, he endured tough times in the South American U-20 Championship, as he wasn’t a regular starter in the team that lost the title to Brazil. However, being three years younger than most teammates, he played on the right wing during that tournament and showed significant physical improvement.

Mastantuono has become physically stronger with increased muscle mass and height, using his long strides while maintaining his natural talent to become a more decisive player.

In recent months, European giants have lined up to sign him. He was already being monitored due to his performances for River Plate’s first team and Argentina’s youth teams (including a respectable showing at the U-17 World Cup), but now the attention has intensified.

The €45 million release clause doesn’t seem excessive for Premier League clubs. Mastantuono is Argentina’s version of Lamine Yamal, just as Estevao holds that status in Brazil. A bright future is predicted for him. A player that Real Madrid are determined to sign.