Manchester United scouting £25 million Argentine wonderkid, rivalling Benfica

Manchester United have sent scouts to River Plate as they are considering making a move for an Argentine wonderkid who is attracting attention from across the world.

The Red Devils are just one of several clubs that are monitoring the situation of 16-year-old Franco Mastantuono ahead of his potential move from River Plate.

The report comes from the Portugese newspaper O Jogo, who have been monitoring the Argentine youngster’s links with Benfica who are also interested in the midfielder.

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But Benfica aren’t alone in their pursuit of Mastantuono, with Manchester United deemed to be “well-placed” amongst a host of potential suitors.

Alongside Benfica and United, other clubs interested in the youngster include Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City.

However, the teenager is unable to move away from South America until he turns 18, giving River Plate the opportunity to tie the youngster down should they want to.

As it stands, Mastantuono’s contract includes a £25 million release clause, but the Argentinian giants hope to increase this to at least £34 million before his 18th birthday in 2026.

But, with only ten appearances for River Plate, there is still plenty of time for his future with the club to be decided.

Of course, this also gives Manchester United and other clubs ample time to continue scouting the youngster and determine whether he is worth the multi-million euro price tag.