Manchester United remain keen on signing River Plate midfielder Franco Mastantuono, according to reports in Spain.

The Red Devils were linked with the Argentinian Under 20 international back in October when it was suggested that Ruben Amorim’s side could table a bid in January.

However, AS now report that Chelsea, Arsenal, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan and Inter Milan are also keeping a close eye on Mastantuono.

The Spanish publication believes that Real Madrid won’t enter the running, leaving the way clear for United and others to make an approach.

Mastantuono does have a release clause in his contract

United already know how much it will cost to secure the 17-year-old’s signature with his buyout fee set at $45m or £36m.

Considering that the Red Devils are limited in what they can do in terms of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules, it is likely that any bid would include instalments and performance-related add-ons to meet the aforementioned price.

That strategy worked for Chelsea when they signed Estevao Willian from Palmeiras, as well as when Real sealed the signature of Endrick.

What do United fans need to know about the player?

Mastantuono joined River Plate’s academy in 2019 before making his first-team debut in January last year, coming on as a second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw against Argentinos Juniors.

The attacking midfielder scored his first senior goal versus Excursionistas a month later, going on to make 41 appearances for River during the 2024 season.

Mastantuono hasn’t been given his first cap by Argentina at senior level yet, but he did play his first game for the Under 20s in a friendly against Uzbekistan last summer. He prefers to be deployed as a no.10 but he can also play on the right wing, cutting in onto his stronger left foot.

Find out who is in Manchester United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here