Real Madrid News
Real Madrid shell out €63.2 million for Mastantuono – most expensive transfer in Argentine football history
Real Madrid announced their third signing of the summer just a while ago, confirming that Franco Mastantuono will join the club from River Plate.
One of the most coveted young footballers across the globe, the 17-year-old sensation will arrive in Spain after the FIFA Club World Cup – where he is representing River Plate.
Full cost of Mastantuono operation
The statement released by Real Madrid did not disclose the exact transfer fee that they had paid to secure Mastantuono’s signing.
However, River Plate have put out a statement providing particular details of the operation and the total cost of the deal, which comes up to €63.2 million.
Of the total fee, €45 million goes directly to River Plate – which was the amount of Mastantuono’s release clause.
The remainder is allocated as follows: €11.8 million in Spanish taxes, €1.4 million to Association of Football Players, €0.9 million to AFA Structural Funds, €3.6 million under Decree 510/2023, and €0.5 million in other fees.
The transfer of Mastantuono thus becomes the most expensive in the history of Argentine football.
The teenager has signed a six-year contract with Real Madrid until 2031 and is expected to earn a net salary of around €3.5 million per year. He will be shielded by a €1 billion release clause.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
