Real Madrid News
Real Madrid deny meeting with South American giants over teenage prodigy’s signing
Following a promising breakthrough year in Argentina this year, River Plate sensation Franco Mastantuono has piqued the interest of several European heavyweights, including Real Madrid.
The Merengues have been linked with a move for Mastantuono for a while now and look forward to adhering to the trend of seizing bright young talents before they blossom into stars.
Just an hour ago, reports came out to claim that River Plate officials, including President Jorge Brito and VP Matias Patanian, were spotted in Madrid to negotiate Franco Mastantuono’s transfer with Real Madrid.
Real Madrid denies meeting
However, according to Jose Felix Diaz of MARCA, Real Madrid have firmly denied any meetings with River Plate officials concerning the transfer of Franco Mastantuono.
Despite recent reports suggesting discussions between the two clubs, Los Blancos have clarified that no such negotiations have taken place.
One could question the validity of that sentiment though as clubs are usually eager to work in peace without much noise or speculation impeding any transfer negotiations.
In any case, Real Madrid are bound to follow Mastantuono closely, especially with competitors also vying for his hand.
Mastantuono’s release clause is €45 million, increasing to €50 million towards the transfer window’s end.
While the Royal Whites are unlikely to pay the full amount, they may structure the deal with fixed and variable fees similar to the Endrick transfer.
Mastantuono, for his part, is keen to see the move materialize. Reports have argued that his camp is confident that the deal will set a record as the most expensive transfer in Argentine football history.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
