Fabrizio Romano has warned the world that a deal for a Manchester United-linked wonderkid would take a lot of time, as many of Europe’s biggest names have started to circle the youngster.
As the end reaches near on what has been a very disappointing campaign for Manchester United, they look to start their summer overhaul early by preparing deals well in advance.
It has already been rumoured that United will look to heavily bolster their attacking arsenal in the coming months, with a deal for Wolves star Matheus Cunha potentially being on the horizon.
With what is set to be a record low for the club, Ruben Amorim’s side have only mustered 39 goals in their 34 Premier League games so far this season, proving the need for reinforcements.
Due to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new strategy looking to focus on the club’s long-term future, United have recently entered the race for one of the world’s most sought after talents, Franco Mastantuono.
United are keen on £38m talent
With many of Europe’s elite clubs starting to gain an interest in the 17-year-old Argentine, United have already stated their intention to sign Mastantuono and are prepared to activate his release clause in the region of £38 million, as reported by TyC Sports.
Mastantuono has stole headlines over the past week due to his stunning free kick for River Plate against their fierce rivals Boca Juniors in what was a 2-1 victory, showcasing why many are desperate for his signature.
Many reports on this saga have been contradictory so far, with CaughtOffside reporting that Chelsea are after the teenager, whilst The Mirror has suggested he will snub all Premier League teams for Real Madrid.
It is no surprise that United, as well as many others, have started circling the Argentine, as he has already scored seven and assisted five across his 55 appearances for River.
Mastantuono deal will “take time” warns Fabrizio Romano
Despite United’s interest in Mastantuono, a transfer could be very difficult, if not impossible due to the manner in which the deal would have to be completed.
Fabrizio Romano has explained in his GiveMeSport newsletter: “No update yet as many clubs are obviously keen, but the clause is clear. River Plate won’t negotiate, so it takes time.” – This could make things difficult for a United side that are desperate to get their deals done early.
This clause could also prove to be a problem for the Red Devils, as the same TyC Sports report previously mentioned claimed that Amorim’s side would only be willing to pay the release clause in instalments, which River won’t accept.
Even if United are able to add Mastantuono to their recent collection of teenage talents, they wouldn’t be able to complete the move until he turns 18 in August, making this deal an unlikely prospect.
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