European giants are fighting for the "new Messi": Guardiola also has his eye on the talented player

Argentina producing football stars is nothing new. However, 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono has recently become one of the most talked-about and promising young players in world football.

Franco Mastantuono is a product of River Plate’s academy, playing as an attacking midfielder. With his technical skills, pace, and football IQ, he has attracted attention not only locally, but also from international scouts. His playing style is compared to Lionel Messi, and many outlets already label him the "new Messi."

At age 16, he scored his first professional goal, becoming the youngest goal scorer in River Plate history. He’s now a regular in Argentina’s youth national teams, where he’s quickly established himself as a leader.

Initially, AC Milan and Inter expressed interest in the young Argentine. Soon after, Barcelona joined the race and began scouting him seriously. But things escalated when Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, entered the picture.

City’s management reportedly sees Mastantuono as a key long-term project, drawing comparisons with Julián Álvarez, another River Plate graduate. According to El Nacional, the club is ready to offer him a lucrative deal and development under one of the world’s top coaches.

Barcelona’s situation is complicated by financial constraints. River Plate is asking for around €40 million, which is difficult for the Catalans to afford unless they sell players or find external financial support.

Alongside City, Paris Saint-Germain is also in the race, intensifying the competition and threatening Barca’s hopes of signing him.

No matter where he goes, one thing is clear: Franco Mastantuono is set to join a top European club. His choice will be one of the most exciting decisions in the upcoming summer transfer window.

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