Atletico Madrid has set their sights on one of the smartest talents in South America, but signing him will not be easy – and not only because Manchester City is also said to sniff around.
Last week it was reported that Atleti registered their interest in Franco Mastantuono. The teenage attacker was closely followed a few months ago by city rivals Real Madrid, although they ended their pursuit – and this enabled Los Colchoneros to bring the exciting talent to the Metropolitano.
However, signing Mastantuono will not be easy, because River Plate does not intend to let their valued young person leave. As communicated by journalist Sebastián Srur (via MD), there are no plans for the Argentinian side to negotiate with clubs that come in for the 17-year-old.
“I don't see it well, further than the fact that there were people from the Madrid team on the monumental on Saturday. I see it almost impossible to do it, especially because of the value of the clause: € 45 million.”
Atleti will be looking for an attacking and creative player in the case of the departure of Antoine Griezmann in the summer, who currently looks relatively likely. They are willing to commit big money to secure a replacement, and although Alex Baena is a leading target, Mastantuono could be the perfect addition for now and the future.
Atleti would certainly have an advantage compared to Man City, because they have a very strong Argentinian contingent in the first team team, and Diego Simeone himself as head coach. However, it would be a gamble to commit € 45 million to a 17-year-old attacker, even if he has a lot of potential.
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