Franco Mastantuono, a player for Real Madrid, is reportedly nearing a temporary departure from the club. Both the club and the player have concluded that a loan move would be beneficial for his career at this stage, aiming to secure more playing time and foster his development away from the intense pressure at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Reports from Spain indicate that the 18-year-old’s future points towards a loan rather than a spot in the first-team squad this season. Real Madrid is actively seeking a suitable club to take him on loan until the end of the campaign, specifically without a buy-option clause. The club’s priority is for him to continue his development in one of Europe’s major leagues.
Loan destination undecided amid multiple offers
Mastantuono’s destination remains undecided, with 12 offers reportedly on the table. Real Madrid’s management is carefully evaluating each proposal, prioritizing a project that guarantees him regular minutes and technical growth. The final decision on his destination is anticipated by the end of this week.
During the current pre-season, Mastantuono showed promising moments in matches against Leganes and Alcorcon. However, he has not been able to secure a permanent place in the lineup, leading both the club and the player to re-evaluate his situation.
A meeting between Mastantuono and coach Jose Mourinho earlier this month reportedly solidified the decision for a loan. Both agreed that a season away from Madrid would benefit his career, given the strong competition for minutes within the squad. Before this meeting, Mastantuono had hoped to establish himself in the team, but new signings, particularly the arrival of striker Yan Diomande, shifted the outlook, making a loan the most probable solution.
Tottenham Hotspur has reportedly made inquiries about a potential deal for Mastantuono. Under manager Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham has been active in the summer transfer window, securing several players including Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. The North London club is said to be looking for a winger, with Manchester City and Brazil international winger Savinho also a target.
According to reports, Tottenham is among the clubs that have contacted Real Madrid regarding Mastantuono. Real Madrid is open to sending him out on loan for the next season, but they do not want any buy option included in the deal, as he is considered a key part of their long-term sporting project.
Former Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa is reportedly interested in bringing the winger to his new club, Fulham. Other clubs, including Juventus and Inter Milan, are also said to be keen on the teenager. Transfer reports indicate that Real Madrid views Mastantuono’s situation as similar to that of Endrick in his initial months at the club, where fierce competition limited opportunities.
Interest from European clubs
A return to River Plate, where Mastantuono began his career, appears unlikely. Both the player and Real Madrid have agreed that continuing his development in Europe would be more beneficial. River Plate had previously tried to bring him back, sending a delegation to Madrid, but the idea was rejected by Real Madrid’s management and the player.
Current information suggests that the Italian league could be the most likely destination for Mastantuono. Como, managed by Cesc Fabregas, had shown interest, but this became less probable after they signed his compatriot Nico Paz. Other Italian clubs reportedly interested in a loan include Fiorentina and Roma, especially if Matias Soule departs. Milan also maintains a good relationship with Real Madrid from previous deals.
In England, Fulham was among the first clubs to express interest in the Argentine player before shifting their focus to other targets. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez previously referred to Mastantuono as “one of the biggest talents to emerge in world football in recent years.”
Mastantuono joined Real Madrid from River Plate in the summer of 2025. He made 35 appearances for Madrid last season, scoring three goals and providing one assist.
Source: goal.com
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