New Delhi: Real Madrid have signed record-breaking Argentina midfielder Franco Mastantuono from River Plate for the next six seasons. The Spanish giants have signed the 17-year-old youngster after triggering a release clause of 45m euros (£38.5m) – which is a new transfer record for the Argentine club.
Last week, Mastantuono became the youngest player to ever feature in a competitive match for Argentina and set a new record for his country. He came off the bench in Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Chile in the 2026 World Cup qualifier.
The Spanish club announced on Friday that the 17-year-old will join in August, which means that he will represent River Plate at the Club World Cup. European giants Real will also play in the tournament in the United States.
Mastantuono becomes Real Madrid’s third signing in the summer window after the 34-time La Liga champions acquired the services of defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen.
The attacking midfielder has been a regular starter for River Plate over the past two seasons. He is also the youngest player to have scored in their derby against Boca Juniors.
His six-year deal with Real Madrid begins on 14 August, on the day he turns 18.
Real Madrid are placed in Group H alongside Saudi Club Al Hilal, Mexican club Pachuca and Austrian club FC Red Bull Salzburg. The Spanish giants open their campaign against Al Hilal on June 19, Thursday.
