Italian giants Inter Milan are reportedly weighing up a summer move for Real Madrid forward Franco Mastantuono, with the club keen on reigniting their long-standing interest in the player.
Nerazzurri have admired the 18-year-old for several years and were previously favourites to sign him while he was at River Plate. However, financial constraints forced them to pull out of the deal, before Real Madrid activated the Argentine’s release clause of €45 million.
Despite initial promise and early flashes of brilliance after his move to the Santiago Bernabeu, things have not gone smoothly for the youngster. Mastantuono has found playing time hard to come by in Real Madrid’s star-studded team, while the presence of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo has significantly limited his chances of a regular role in the team.
The Argentine has managed only seven starts in the Spanish La Liga this season, coming off the bench for his remaining minutes while he has also spent several matchdays as an unused substitute. However, he has scored twice in his last three appearances for the club across all competitions as he continues to stake a claim for a more regular role.
According to reports, Inter Milan are closely monitoring the situation and are interested in making a formal approach in the summer. However, Real Madrid are reluctant to part ways permanently with the player and would favour a loan deal or a permanent transfer including a buy-back clause, similar to the arrangement that saw Nico Paz join Como, giving the club power over the player’s future.
Mastantuono is open to the idea of leaving Los Blancos in search of regular playing minutes which is important for his development. Inter Milan would offer competitive football both in Europe and in the league, giving the 18-year-old the chance to grow at the highest level.
