Real Madrid have officially confirmed a transfer agreement to sign rising Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono from River Plate. The deal, announced on Friday, includes a total package valued at approximately €61 million, which accounts for taxes and additional fees. Despite the official agreement, Mastantuono will not immediately join the Spanish giants. According to beIN Sports, River Plate pushed to retain the 17-year-old midfielder until the conclusion of their Copa Libertadores campaign. As a result, the transfer will be completed after the FIFA Club World Cup. In an official club statement, Real Madrid revealed: “Mastantuono will be a player at our club for the next six seasons, from 14 August 2025 to 30 June 2031.” Franco Mastantuono has already made history by becoming the youngest footballer to feature in an official match for Argentina’s national team, showcasing his potential at just 17 years old. In contrast, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who recently joined Madrid for a reported €10 million in compensation, is already in training with Xabi Alonso’s squad at Valdebebas. The English full-back is expected to make his debut during the upcoming Club World Cup.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially been allocated the No.12 shirt by Real Madrid for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup and possibly for the rest of the season. This move comes as the English international bids farewell to the iconic No.66 jersey he sported throughout his career at Liverpool. Due to LaLiga regulations, which mandate that players choose numbers ranging from one to 25, Alexander-Arnold had to select a new number following his transfer. Real Madrid, commonly known as Los Blancos, have unveiled their updated squad list along with the corresponding official shirt numbers ahead of the global tournament. Historically, the No.12 shirt at the Santiago Bernabéu has held prestige, notably worn by club legend Marcelo, and most recently by Eduardo Camavinga. Alexander-Arnold had worn the No.66 jersey since his development years at Liverpool’s youth academy until his recent departure. Interestingly, his new number might reflect a personal touch—adding six and six to total twelve—though it remains subject to change during the pre-season period.
