Recent reports linking Franco Mastantuono with a January loan move from Real Madrid have been firmly dismissed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The 18-year-old Argentine midfielder, who joined from River Plate for €45 million, is being fully integrated into the first team, with manager Xabi Alonso considering him a key figure in the club’s long-term plans.
Despite limited minutes in LaLiga this month, Mastantuono is focused on improving after he said he has not yet reached his best level at Real Madrid. He also revealed his admiration for teammates like Jude Bellingham, noting how he was surprised by Bellingham’s aura at Real Madrid, as reported by SoftFootball.
Earlier speculation suggested Mastantuono had requested a loan to secure more playing time ahead of Argentina’s 2026 World Cup preparations.
However, these claims have been contradicted by Romano, confirming on his official X account that both Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso are committed to keeping him at the club. The young midfielder’s development is being carefully managed, emphasizing patience over short-term moves.
Fabrizio Romano posted:
Reports of Franco Mastantuono leaving Real Madrid on loan in January are described as wife of mark. Xabi Alonso and the club see Franco as key part of the project.
The club’s January window has already seen Endrick complete a six-month loan to Olympique Lyon, with no plans for Mastantuono to leave temporarily. Real Madrid also intends to continue its cautious approach to loans, as seen with the Nico Paz deal, which included a development spell at Como before his 2026 return.
Alonso, who played a pivotal role in bringing Mastantuono to the club, sees him as a strategic asset for the future. With rotational opportunities and careful management, Mastantuono is expected to make a significant impact in the first team.
The club’s stance confirms that Real Madrid values nurturing their promising talents internally rather than losing them to temporary spells elsewhere. Mastantuono’s path is now clearly laid out under Alonso, ensuring he has every chance to develop into a key contributor for the club in the seasons ahead.
