Earlier today, word had it that Real Madrid were close to reaching an agreement with River Plate over the transfer of Franco Mastantuono.
Santiago Solari and Juni Calafat were said to have played a key role in mediating talks and a move was said to be around the corner.
The situation, however, is not half as clear. After all, the Argentine sensation will not come cheap and Real Madrid are not prepared to meet his release clause as it stands.
AS now provides another update on the club’s status on Mastantuono and a realistic indicator of where talks stand.
As revealed by the Spanish outlet, the 16-year-old star’s future is indeed beginning to take shape as Real Madrid and River Plate are conducting unofficial talks over a transfer. Los Blancos, in fact, are said to be rushing the proceedings.
Still no agreement for Mastantuono. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
There is, however, no agreement in place with the player or his employers as it stands. The deal is still a fair distance from materialising and there has been no talk of numbers or official offer yet.
Real Madrid are in pole position to sign the player as of now, but with Barcelona and Chelsea lurking around, they will prefer to strike while the iron is hot.
Mastantuono’s current release clause stands at €45 million and Los Blancos do not see that number to be justified given the player’s age. If River Plate show no room for negotiation, however, Real Madrid may get close to the figure.
In any case, the men in white hope to utilise a similar formula to what they used to sign Endrick – to pay a part of the clause with fixed amounts and the remaining part as variables and a percentage of a future sale.
The operation thus might drag beyond the summer transfer market and into the next year. Despite the player being ready to link up with the first team, the Merengues do not wish to rush matters with the young phenom.
PSV midfielder plays down Real Madrid links: “None of the rumours are true”
Joey Veerman, a midfielder for PSV, recently addressed rumours connecting him to Real Madrid, asserting they are untrue.
Reports had suggested he might replace Toni Kroos, noting similarities in their playing styles. However, Veerman himself dismissed these speculations, stating unequivocally, “None of the rumours are true,” as quoted by Diario AS.
Speaking before the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 opener against Poland, Veerman admitted feeling a mix of happiness and discomfort over the links to Real Madrid.
While flattered by the association with such a prestigious club, he found the media attention unsettling, especially since there was no factual basis to the rumours.
“I could be happy about the fact that they put me in Madrid, but I feel uncomfortable because it is a lie.
I get tired and uncomfortable in equal measure. Especially, because I have to constantly answer this question when there is absolutely nothing.
I’m faced with this because someone on TV says I would fit in well there and a Spanish newspaper writes something,” he added.
Joey Veerman says he will not join Real Madrid. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
Veerman explained that these rumours often arise from media speculation about his potential fit at Real Madrid, despite acknowledging that he might suit their style of play.
However, he emphasised the enormity of the club and hinted that any decision to leave PSV, where he is under contract until 2026, would depend on finding a team that values possession-oriented football.
“Maybe I would fit in there, but hey, it’s Real Madrid. When you see the players they have as starters…”
The midfielder clarified that he prefers clubs that prioritise ball retention rather than those where players constantly chase after the ball. This distinction is crucial for his style of play and his career aspirations.
“If I leave, it will be to a club that likes to have the ball. I’m not a player who stays back and chases the ball for the whole game,” he said.
While flattered by the attention from Real Madrid, Veerman remains focused on his current obligations with PSV.
He maintains a pragmatic view about his future, prioritising clubs that align with his playing philosophy and where he can contribute effectively on the pitch.
For now, the 25-year-old is concentrated on performing well for the Netherlands and dismissing any unfounded transfer rumours.