Franco Mastantuono has been tipped to succeed Lionel Messi as Argentina’s next No. 10 as Daniel Brizuela, the former head of scouting for River Plate, believes that the Real Madrid star has "Zidane-esque qualities". Unsurprisingly, some of Europe’s biggest clubs were circling as he turned 17. Paris Saint-Germain were among those reportedly eager to secure Mastantuono’s signature, but ultimately Real Madrid's persistence paid off.
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior has put the brakes on discussions regarding a contract extension, sparking growing uncertainty about his long-term future in the Spanish capital. The Brazilian has less than two years remaining on his current deal, and at this stage, his representatives have decided to step away from the negotiating table entirely, at least for the foreseeable future.
Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman has been compared to Lionel Messi by Gunners legend Perry Groves, who has urged Mikel Arteta to nurture the 15-year-old’s talent in the same way Birmingham did with Jude Bellingham. Groves praised the 15-year-old’s unique ability and left-footed grace while calling him a “scary talent” following his impressive pre-season displays.
Tottenham Hotspur have expressed interest in signing Rodrygo Goes from Real Madrid, but the Brazilian winger reportedly has no intention of joining the Premier League side. While the Lilywhites have explored a possible move, the 24-year-old has his sights set on a 'bigger club than Tottenham' if he leaves the Santiago Bernabeu this summer following his slide down the pecking order.
It's not quite gone according to plan for Vinicius Jr. at Real Madrid ever since he missed out on the Ballon d'Or and he's now got a big season ahead of him
Real Madrid have decided not to pay Vinicius Junior the same salary as Kylian Mbappe amid speculation that the Brazilian might not extend his stay at the Santiago Bernabéu beyond 2027. Contract talks between the player and the club have stalled for months now as the Selecao star is demanding a hike in his salary which the Spanish side are refusing to entertain.
Real Madrid have already identified Vinicius Junior's replacement as contract talks with the Brazilian winger have stalled. Vini Jr. still has two years left on his existing deal and is demanding a wage hike to sign a new contract. In case the Selecao star leaves the club, amid interest from Saudi Arabia, Los Blancos will go after Premier League star Erling Haaland.