Manchester United’s summer rebuild under INEOS is expected to focus heavily on youth recruitment, with the club determined to secure long-term value from the transfer market.
The strategy includes identifying top talents abroad who can either be integrated into the first team, developed within the academy, or loaned out before being sold for profit.
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This is part of a broader shift aimed at improving squad sustainability and operating within PSR regulations, while also beating elite rivals to future stars.
River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono is a high-profile name on United’s radar as they continue to expand their reach across South America.
Manchester United make formal approach for Franco Mastantuono
According to Bolavip, Manchester United have made a formal approach to sign Mastantuono following his sensational free-kick goal in the Superclasico against Boca Juniors.
The 17-year-old’s standout display has only accelerated interest.
Scouts from across Europe are now closely tracking the midfielder’s progress.
The report states that United contacted River Plate’s hierarchy and were prepared to meet the player’s €45 million release clause.
However, aiming to do so through instalments.
That structure was rejected by the Argentine club, who are unwilling to accept anything other than the full amount up front.
United’s interest comes as Marseille also sent South American scout Andres Zamora to watch the teenager in person.
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Although, Mastantuono reportedly has no desire to move to France.
His priority according to Bola’s report, is a future move to Real Madrid.
Madrid, who are already believed to be in the race to sign the talent.
It is believed he would only consider other elite clubs such as Bayern Munich, Barcelona, or Liverpool.
A stance which will disappoint United fans, considering he recently rejected United’s approach.
For now, both the player and River hope he stays at least until the end of the year, with the Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup key targets.
Mastantuono’s current contract runs until December 2026.
River Plate are making it clear: any club wanting to land him must trigger the full clause, no negotiations.
