“I’m Going to Italy”: Fiorentina and Others Are Abuzz Over Mastantuono

Franco Mastantuono is close to a move to Serie A: according to reports in *Corriere dello Sport*, the Argentine talent—who isn’t getting playing time with José Mourinho’s Real Madrid—is reportedly interested in moving to Italy, following in the footsteps of Nico Paz at Como. “I’m going to Italy,” he reportedly confided to the Special One, thus ruling out other leagues.

Fiorentina has long been tracking the 2007-born player, who is also being pursued by other clubs such as Milan and Roma, which are said to have made inquiries with the player’s agents. The Viola cannot offer European cup competition but guarantee a starting spot and a leading role in what is set to be a comeback season for the team following a bitter year.

Real Madrid has opened the door to the player’s departure and is open to a loan deal with an option to buy, modeled after the Nico Paz deal. Paratici is in negotiations with the player’s entourage, and decisive news could arrive soon.

Mastantuono’s season at Real Madrid has been anything but exciting. Having arrived last summer from River Plate for 45 million euros, the 2007-born player initially found playing time under Xabi Alonso, only to gradually slip to the bench following the change in head coach. In total, he made 26 appearances—15 of them as a starter—scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist, without ever managing to establish himself as a regular. His trajectory closely mirrors that of Endrick, who moved on loan to Marseille during the winter transfer window.