Real Madrid pull River Plate talks, eye Serie A loan for Mastantuono

Real Madrid have changed course on the immediate future of Franco Mastantuono. According to journalist Matteo Moretto, the Spanish giants have put discussions with River Plate on hold and are now prioritizing a European loan move for the 18-year-old Argentine midfielder. Serie A clubs are leading the race. Fiorentina and Roma are both monitoring the situation and are open to taking Mastantuono on a dry loan - with no option to buy - as Madrid insist he needs regular first-team minutes. Mastantuono joined Real in the summer of 2025 and has since made 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and adding one assist. The club believes a spell in Italy would accelerate his development before he returns to compete for a place at the Bernabéu.