Why did Real Madrid add Franco Mastantuono to their blacklist?

Franco Mastantuono was once considered one of the most exciting young prospects on Real Madrid’s radar, but everything changed within days. The Spanish giants have reportedly placed the 17-year-old River Plate talent on their blacklist, feeling they were used in contract negotiations, as revealed by journalist Jose Felix Diaz. While talks were ongoing, Mastantuono’s camp was also working on a renewal with River Plate.

Madrid's directors believe the player's entourage leveraged their interest to secure a salary increase and raise his release clause at River. That strategy was seen as dishonest, and once the Argentine club announced the new deal, all communication between the parties was cut off.

Mastantuono, who has impressed with his technical quality and vision in Argentina’s top flight, now has a release clause set at 45 million euros. While not unreachable for Europe’s elite, Real Madrid no longer consider him a target due to how events unfolded.

From River Plate’s side, the outcome is seen as a victory. They managed to secure one of their most promising players just as the interest from abroad began to grow. The young left-footed midfielder continues to draw attention from clubs across Europe, but for now, his path seems set in Buenos Aires.

The teenager has shown remarkable maturity and poise each time he steps onto the pitch, prompting comparisons to past River prodigies who made early breakthroughs. Still, this fallout with Madrid might mark a significant turning point in his international career.

Mastantuono remains focused on his development at River, with the incident possibly becoming just a footnote if he maintains his rise and proves he's ready for the biggest stages in world football.

Real Madrid cross him off the list after feeling deceived

Following the contract extension and the perceived manipulation in talks, the Spanish club now refuses to pursue the talented youngster any further.