Villarreal emerge as leading candidate to sign Real Madrid prodigy on loan amid widespread interest

Villarreal emerge as leading candidate to sign Real Madrid prodigy on loan amid widespread interest Franco Mastantuono could spend next season away from Real Madrid, with a loan move increasingly viewed as the most likely outcome for the highly-rated Argentine wonderkid. Although Jose Mourinho wants to assess the 18-year-old during pre-season before making a final decision, the Spanish capital club have long been working under the assumption that he will continue his development elsewhere. A permanent departure has never been considered. Real Madrid invested €63.2 million to sign Mastantuono last summer and have no intention of losing control of one of their most valuable prospects. The Argentine remains under contract until 2031, and any move this summer would only be on a straightforward loan deal, without purchase clauses or options that could weaken Madrid’s grip on his future. Europe remains the priority Once it became clear that Real Madrid were open to sending Mastantuono out on loan, interest quickly arrived from across Europe and South America, as reported by Mundo Deportivo . Mastantuono likely to leave on loan. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images) Inter Milan, Sporting CP, Tottenham Hotspur, Benfica, and Stade Rennais have all explored the possibility of signing the youngster. Meanwhile, the teenage gem’s former club, River Plate, have also shown a strong interest . However, Real Madrid’s priorities are clear. The club want Mastantuono to remain in Europe and preferably join a side competing in the Champions League. With those conditions in mind, several candidates have already fallen behind in the race. Villarreal in pole position Indeed, as per the report, Villarreal currently lead the chase for the Argentine attacking midfielder. Headed to Villarreal? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) The Yellow Submarine meet Real Madrid’s requirements, offering the prospect of Champions League football and a competitive environment in which Mastantuono could receive regular minutes. The arrangement would also see Los Blancos cover half of the player’s wages, making the operation financially manageable for the La Liga club. For now, no final decision has been made, and Mourinho’s assessment during pre-season could still influence events. But as things stand, Villarreal appear to be the strongest candidates to secure Mastantuono’s services. If the deal goes through, one of Real Madrid and South America’s brightest talents could remain in La Liga next season, continuing his development while wearing the colours of Villarreal.