Enzo Fernandez has claimed that Manchester United and Chelsea target Franco Mastantuono is destined to play in Europe.
Manchester United’s transfer chiefs are trying to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s squad next season with young and exciting talent.
While players like Matheus Cunha are set to join, with proven experience at the top level, the Reds are also eyeing some younger talent who could blossom into top players at Old Trafford.
That new strategy has been made obvious through the recent signings of Sekou Kone, Chido Obi and Ayden Heaven. No longer are United focusing solely on older players with extraordinary wages.
There have been many exciting stars linked with a move to United and one of them is Argentina and River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono.
Mastantuono, 17, is already a regular for River Plate’s first-team and has been trusted to play in some of their most important games in recent months.
He has a £38 million release clause which can be activated in the summer and United are among a host of top European clubs interested in signing him.
Fernandez sends United clear message about Mastantuono
Chelsea are also linked with Mastantuono and Enzo Fernandez is more than familiar with his fellow countryman’s talent.
Fernandez has described the teenager as an “incredible player” and suggested that he’s ready for a move to Europe in the next transfer window.
“He’s showing that he has a European future,” Fernández told ESPN F 12 when asked about Mastantuono. “You can see it.
“He’s an incredible player. He’s doing very well and has shown great talent. In my opinion, he’s a star. I wish him the best and hope he can achieve all his goals. Hopefully he can also help us in the national team.”
If anyone at United was unsure on whether Mastantuono can take on the next steps, the compliments from Fernandez make it clear he’s a top talent ready for that big move.
United might have upper hand through offering playing time
United are not in the best position right now but that isn’t as important when looking to sign such young players. The long-term project and potential first-team opportunities are crucial.
The Reds can almost guarantee playing time for a talent like Mastantuono, which could give them an upper-hand in negotiations with his agents if they decide to push forward with a deal.
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Chelsea’s approach is different and they would almost certainly be prepared to offer someone like Mastantuono with an eight-year contract without blinking before sending him back out on loan. That is how they beat United to Geovany Quenda’s signature.
Of course, there are other top clubs in the picture as well and it seems like Mastantuono will have many options when he comes to consider his future in the summer.
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