Liverpool is reportedly set to activate the £37.3 million release clause of River Plate’s highly-rated talent, Franco Mastantuono. The 19-year-old Argentine has been attracting significant interest from several top European clubs, including Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Mastantuono has been a key target for Liverpool, as they look to beat their rivals to his signature. The club’s determination to trigger his release clause signals their intent to move quickly in securing the young star.
However, the competition for Mastantuono is fierce. In October, PSG identified him as a primary transfer target and had planned to activate his €40 million release clause. Notably, this amount could rise to €45 million during the final ten days of the transfer window, further complicating negotiations for interested clubs.
Manchester United is also closely monitoring the player. According to Diario AS journalist Eduardo Burgos, United sees Mastantuono as a valuable addition to their squad and is reportedly preparing a bid for the January transfer window.
ESPN Argentina also emphasized United’s strong interest in the teenager, suggesting that the club is particularly determined to bring him to Old Trafford.
In addition to Liverpool, PSG, and Manchester United, several other European giants, including Barcelona, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, are keeping tabs on Mastantuono. Barcelona’s interest appears serious, as Mundo Deportivo recently reported that one of the club’s scouts attended River Plate’s Copa Libertadores semifinal match against Atletico Mineiro at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on October 29.
Liverpool’s proactive approach may give them an edge in the race for Mastantuono. According to Defensa Central, the Merseyside club is keen to trigger his release clause and outmaneuver Real Madrid, who are also pursuing the young Argentine.
Mastantuono’s consistent performances this season have further heightened his appeal. In the 2024 campaign, he has made 41 appearances for River Plate across all competitions, contributing four goals and three assists.
With his growing reputation as one of Argentina’s brightest young talents, Mastantuono is poised to be a major coup for whichever club manages to secure his services. Liverpool, by moving swiftly, hopes to position themselves as frontrunners in what is shaping up to be a highly competitive transfer battle.
