Manchester United have received a potential transfer boost after Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Real Madrid are not interested in one “special” target.
Manchester United’s recruitment team is planning to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s squad for next season by focusing on young, energetic talents.
In addition to experienced targets like Matheus Cunha—who is expected to join with a solid track record at the top level—United are also prioritizing up-and-coming prospects with the potential to develop and thrive at Old Trafford.
Among the most promising young players linked with the club this upcoming summer is Franco Mastantuono, a 17-year-old Argentine standout currently playing for River Plate.
Mastantuono is a key figure in the first team, as showcased by his performance in the Superclasico against Boca Juniors on the weekend where he scored an unbelievable free-kick.
With a £38 million release clause set to become active this summer, United are among a number of top European sides showing keen interest in securing the teenager’s services.
Romano confirms United transfer boost in Mastantuono chase
Mastantuono’s talent means that some top European clubs have been linked with his name, including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Although, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Madrid’s interest in signing the “special” talent is not as strong as some reports suggest, which would be a boost for United’s hopes of signing him.
The Italian reporter stated on his YouTube channel that the Spanish club are ‘not happy’ with the total package involved in a potential deal for Mastantuono – including agent fees and wages.
He said that Madrid are not currently looking at making a move for him but added that Premier League clubs like United and Chelsea are keeping an eye on a deal.
River Plate’s stance on Mastantuono future
Despite strong interest from the likes of United, the Argentine club has firmly expressed its stance on Mastantuono’s immediate future.
Following the teenager’s stunning free-kick goal in a 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Boca Juniors, head coach Marcelo Gallardo made it clear that the youngster won’t be going anywhere in the short-term after one of the club directors suggested a move won’t happen until 2026.
“We have to support him; he’s taking his first steps,” Gallardo told TN. “The markets are dynamic, and the financial power is strong.
“He’s a player who inspires enormous enthusiasm for his young age. He’s a kid who has his feet firmly on the ground, but it’s not a bad idea to feel he needs to keep growing.
“We want him to continue developing and growing as a footballer and as a person. That (his departure from the club) isn’t going to happen anytime soon.
“Franco isn’t River’s leader; he’s just another player who fits in and, with his free spirit, creates what he creates. That’s very valuable. He also embraces physical qualities that are very well-equipped for a 17-year-old.”
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.