La Liga
Franco Mastantuono, 18-year-old Argentine forward, is keeping the Real Madrid transfer market in suspense as they are considering loaning him to a European club, but the player is causing issues as he only wants to return to River Plate. The white club is willing to look for a loan for him this summer, but they prefer that he continues his development in LaLiga and will not include any purchase option.
The Argentine entity has already started contacts to understand the terms of the operation. There is currently no agreement between the clubs, and the decision will depend on whether Madrid accepts to change a roadmap that has so far placed the player in European football.
Franco Mastantuono Wants to Return to River Plate
The choice of Franco Mastantuono comes after José Mourinho informed him that he will have difficulties getting regular playing time. Competition in the offensive positions has led the sports management to consider a temporary exit as the best option for the upcoming season.
River Plate offers the player a familiar environment and the opportunity to regain continuity in the club where he excelled before joining the Santiago Bernabéu. Mastantuono prioritizes this alternative over the proposals received from Spain.
However, Real Madrid believes that a return to Argentina would hinder his adaptation to European football. In Valdebebas, they prefer him to continue competing in LaLiga, a league where he has already gained experience during his first season as a Madrid player.
The loan will be subject to three conditions. The club demands regular playing time, a playing style suitable for his characteristics, and a loan without a purchase option. Mastantuono's contract extends until June 2031, so Madrid does not consider relinquishing control over his future.
Villarreal and Real Sociedad Await Real Madrid's Decision
Villarreal and Real Sociedad are among the clubs interested in receiving Franco Mastantuono. Both can offer European competition and a higher volume of playing time than he would have this season in Mourinho's squad.
Villarreal has been a contender from the beginning of the market. Their participation in the Champions League and their commitment to an offensive style align with the sporting conditions set by Madrid to authorize the loan.
Real Sociedad has also requested information. The Basque club provides European presence and a context with lower internal competition, but they need to know what percentage of the player's salary the owning entity would bear.
Salary is one of the main obstacles. Capology estimates his total gross income at around €9.1 million per season, an amount that Villarreal and Real Sociedad cannot wholly cover.
Therefore, Real Madrid would need to contribute significantly to the salary if they want the Argentine to remain in Spain. The salary distribution will be crucial in negotiations with the LaLiga clubs and in discussions with River.

A Loan Without Purchase Option
The Fiorentina is also monitoring the situation, while Fulham, Juventus, and Tottenham have been linked as potential destinations for the player. None of these routes have reached a definitive stage yet.
The next step will be resolving the discrepancy between the player's desire and the club's sporting criteria. Franco Mastantuono insists on returning to River Plate, but Madrid will decide during this market whether to allow his return or prioritize a loan in Spain to maintain his adaptation to LaLiga.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mastantuono rompe los planes del Real Madrid
