Mastantuono’s revival in Italy puts four clubs on alert

Franco Mastantuono’s improved form at Fiorentina has attracted interest from three more Serie A clubs, with Milan, Roma and Napoli reportedly monitoring the Real Madrid midfielder alongside his loan club.

The 19-year-old joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 in one of the club’s major deals, with the Spanish side paying River Plate 63.2m euros for his services.

Mastantuono initially played an important role under Xabi Alonso, but gradually moved away from the starting XI and eventually became a substitute. He subsequently joined Fiorentina on a season-long loan last summer following the arrival of Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho.

The Argentina international is currently expected to return to Real Madrid at the end of the season. However, La Repubblica reports that Fiorentina want to retain him for another campaign. The newspaper says that remaining with the Italian club would require, or at least become more likely, if Fiorentina secured qualification for European competitions.

Mastantuono’s performances in Florence have also prompted interest from elsewhere in Italy. Journalist Akram Konur says Milan, Roma and Napoli are closely following the midfielder.

Mastantuono reflects on difficult Real Madrid spell

After rediscovering his form in Italy, Mastantuono spoke about the impact of the move on his football and personal life in comments that appeared to underline the contrast between his time in Madrid and his current situation.

Speaking after Argentina’s victory over Bolivia last month, the player told reporters in the mixed zone, as quoted by Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo: “I feel great since I went to Italy and changed my life a little. I feel very comfortable and have enjoyed it a lot.”

He added: “Changing the environment was great for me.”

Mastantuono also expressed his appreciation for Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who he said had helped restore his confidence with the national team.

“Scaloni gives me a lot of freedom to play, and I am grateful for that,” he said.

The midfielder, who remains under contract with Real Madrid, also discussed the disappointment of being left out of Argentina’s squad for the last World Cup.

“It is difficult not to be called up, but I have always encouraged my team-mates and Argentina to give their best,” Mastantuono said. “They put in an amazing performance at the World Cup and made all Argentines proud.”

He ended his comments by looking ahead, saying: “A new stage is beginning. I feel good and I may get an opportunity, but above all, I want to work with the national team.”

Mastantuono joined Fiorentina from Real Madrid on loan last summer after a difficult period in the Spanish capital. Since moving to Florence, he has regained the form that previously made him one of South America’s most highly regarded young players.