Transfers
Mourinho trusts Real Madrid prodigy Franco Mastantuono, loan unlikely
Jose Mourinho, the newly appointed Real Madrid manager, has voiced strong confidence in 18‑year‑old Argentine attacking midfielder Franco Mastantuono, reducing the likelihood of a summer loan. Mastantuono, who scored three goals and provided an assist in 35 appearances (1,484 minutes) after a €60 million transfer from River Plate, remains keen to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid are expected to focus on departures after a spree of signings, needing to balance the books and create room for new arrivals. Names linked with permanent exits include Dani Ceballos, Fran Garcia and Raul Asencio.
Mastantuono emerged as a candidate for a loan after a difficult debut season in Spain where he struggled for regular minutes. He finished the campaign with three goals and an assist across 35 matches, totalling 1,484 minutes.
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According to The Athletic, Mourinho’s faith in the Argentine makes a loan move unlikely. The club would only consider a temporary departure if it asks the player, but Mastantuono’s entourage says his priority is to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. Real Madrid paid over €60 million to acquire Mastantuono from River Plate last summer, and he initially impressed under former coach Xabi Alonso. However, his importance waned due to pubalgia problems and inconsistent performances. Competition for midfield places will be intense, with Brahim Diaz, Rodrygo and new signing Bernardo Silva all vying for game time. Mourinho also plans to test Endrick on the right wing, further complicating Mastantuono’s prospects.