Real Madrid Secures Young Star Franco Mastantuono in Record-Breaking $65 Million Deal

June 12, 2025 – Real Madrid has finalized a groundbreaking transfer, signing 17-year-old Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono from River Plate in a deal worth $65 million, the highest transfer fee ever for an Argentine player. The announcement, confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Wednesday, marks a strategic coup for the Spanish giants as they look to bolster their squad with emerging talent under new coach Xabi Alonso.

Mastantuono, who recently debuted for Argentina in a 1-0 victory over Chile, completed his medical tests and is set to sign a contract until June 2031. His move was sealed after a personal call from Alonso, highlighting the club’s focus on South American prospects, following the success of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo. The teenager will finish the season with River Plate, including the Club World Cup, before joining Madrid in August after turning 18.

The transfer, which includes a $48 million release clause paid upfront with additional taxes, underscores Madrid’s investment in youth. Mastantuono’s 90% pass accuracy in his international debut (per Opta) signals his readiness for elite football, positioning him as a key figure in Real Madrid’s future dominance.