Real Madrid are close to dealing with River Plate for a surprise despite a bigger offer from Manchester City

Real Madrid are closing in on a deal with River Plate for a 16-year-old wonderkid Franco Mastantuono, with contacts between clubs in the right direction. Los Blancos have moved ahead of Manchester City in the race for his signature

It was reported last month that Real Madrid reached an agreement on personal terms with Mastantuono, and they are assured that he will prioritize his offer over others. Brand report that Manchester City they are willing to offer more to River and Mastantuono, but it is accepted that Real Madrid is in pole position.

An agreement between the clubs is approaching, and relations are good, with Santiago Solari leading discussions with River vice-president Ignacio Villarroel. Mastantuono will stay at River for another year, and the Argentine giants have also accepted that the Blancos will not pay his release clause of 45 million euros.

Mastantuono looks set to become the latest recruit in Real Madrid's efforts to pick the best talents in football before they reach their peak. With the exciting core that the Blancos are building, it is easy to understand that many young talents will be attracted to the Santiago Bernabeu. Even with a significant difference financially, most will still be well paid by Real Madrid.