Manchester United’s chances of signing River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono have improved, after Real Madrid officially withdrew from the race to sign the youngster.

Manchester United are getting closer to signing River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono after Real Madrid suddenly withdrew from the race, according to Sport.

Real Madrid are said to be unwilling to pay the 45 million Euro release clause that River is demanding, and are not satisfied with the way Mastantuono’s representative worked during the negotiation process. This is considered extremely positive news for Man Utd, because before that, the Spanish royal team was the dream destination of the young midfielder born in 2007.

According to TYC Sports , Man Utd are ready to activate the 45 million Euro release clause to bring Mastantuono – the talent dubbed “the new Messi” of South American football. This 17-year-old player has just made a big splash when scoring a super free kick from 30 meters, helping River Plate defeat rivals Boca Juniors. It was also his fourth goal in 13 matches this season.

However, River Plate is determined to keep their precious gem until the end of 2025. Club General Secretary Stefano Di Carlo affirmed: “Mastantuono will continue to be with River until the end of the year, that is for sure.”

Currently, in addition to Man Utd, there are a series of European giants closely following this player, including PSG, AC Milan and Inter Milan. However, the Old Trafford team is clearly dominating this race, thanks to being more proactive and decisive than their opponents.

Mastantuono made a splash in Argentina when he turned down Real Madrid to sign a new contract with River last year. And although Real tried to re-enter the deal in the summer, they have now officially pulled the plug, opening up a huge opportunity for Man Utd to complete one of the most exciting deals in world football today.