Real Madrid want to sign £38m wonderkid before Man Utd

Real Madrid are eager to sign River Plate wonderkid Franco Mastantuono ahead of Manchester United this summer, according to AS.

The European giants are about to sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen and he could be joined by several newcomers later this year.

Mastantuono agreed terms with Los Blancos last summer but the club were unwilling to meet the reported £38m release clause in his deal.

However, talks are back on between the clubs. Madrid aim to pay around £25m with the remaining in the form of performance add-ons.

Madrid are also speaking with the 17-year-old's agents in Spain and they seem to have an upper hand over United in the race at the moment.

United are also keen admirers of the versatile attacker, who has bagged four goals and five assists from just 16 appearances this campaign.

They have sent scouts to monitor him but may not make a huge outlay unless they secure extra funds with Champions League qualification.