Man Utd handed bad news in bid to land £42m Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono as River Plate offer transfer update on 17-year-old star

The 17-year-old sensation is said to be attracting interest from across Europe, with La Liga giants Real Madrid another of his many suitors. The youngster saw his stock rise even further when netting a stunning 30-yard free-kick for River in their Clasico clash with arch-rivals Boca Juniors.

He has now netted four goals in 13 appearances this season and is considered to be the hottest of prospects. Real have been monitoring his development since the summer of 2024, while United have now joined the clamour for his signature.

Mastantuono will turn 18 in August, at which point he could bid farewell to his homeland. River are, however, adamant that he will see out the calendar year with them. Board member Stefano Di Carlo told ESPN’s Sports Center when asked if Mastantuono will remain with the club for the remainder of 2025: “Yes, yes, that’s a certainty already.”

Mastantuono, who qualifies for an Italian passport through his grandmother - making it easier for a move to Europe to be made - has a release clause in his contract that has risen to €50 million (£42m/$57m).