Chelsea are allegedly prepared to outbid their rivals in the race to sign River Plate starlet Franco Mastantuono.
The Blues have made a habit out of signing South American prospects since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital became co-owners in May 2022.
Estevao Willian's recent rise to prominence is evidence that there is value in heavily investing in youngsters from that part of the world.
Nevertheless, it appears that the Premier League giants have no intention of resting on their laurels when it comes to acquiring some of the best talent on the planet.
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Chelsea to move for Mastantuono
According to Fichajes, Chelsea are showing a growing interest in trying to win the race for Mastantuono.
The 17-year-old has emerged as a key figure for River Plate, already making 40 appearances for the Argentine giants in all competitions.
However, with his contract due to expire at the end of 2026, there is naturally increasing interest in his signature ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
That is despite Mastantuono being in a position where he cannot move to a foreign club until August, FIFA regulations dictating that he must first turn 18 years of age.
Chelsea will already be welcoming Estevao and Kendry Paez next summer due to the same ruling, and the report is allegedly that the West Londoners are willing to pay Mastantuono's €45m (£37.07m) release clause.
Earlier this year, Chelsea agreed a deal to sign fellow Argentine prospect Aaron Anselmino, with a decision expected shortly as to how they plan to handle the next phase of the defender's development.
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Who could rival Chelsea for Mastantuono?
Manchester City and Real Madrid are two clubs that have been credited as admirers of the Argentina Under-20 international in the past.
City have already negotiated a deal for River Plate youngster Claudio Echeverri and it is plausible that their recent business with the same club may benefit them should they up their interest in Mastantuono.
Pep Guardiola is also evaluating how he can progress with a rebuild at the Etihad Stadium after their recent poor form.
Darren Plant
