Watch: Real Madrid prodigy arrives in Italy ahead of Fiorentina loan move

Watch: Real Madrid prodigy arrives in Italy ahead of Fiorentina loan move Real Madrid youngster Franco Mastantuono has officially arrived in Italy to begin the next chapter of his career. The highly-rated Argentine midfielder landed in Florence on Thursday night, where hundreds of Fiorentina supporters were waiting to welcome him ahead of the official completion of his loan move to the Serie A side . The excitement surrounding the former River Plate starlet was evident from the moment he emerged from the airport. Dozens of Viola fans gathered to greet him, take photos and welcome one of the club’s most eagerly anticipated signings of the summer. A loan aimed at accelerating his development After joining Real Madrid last summer, Mastantuono endured a difficult debut season due to injuries and lack of regular opportunities. As such, he is now set to gain valuable first-team experience in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues. The Argentine will spend the upcoming season on loan at Fiorentina, with the agreement running until the middle of 2027. Importantly, the deal does not include a purchase option, meaning Mastantuono will return to Real Madrid once the loan expires, with the Merengues fully believing in his potential and viewing him as a future star for the team. The 18-year-old attacking midfielder had been left out of Real Madrid’s squad for the pre-season friendly against Fiorentina, a decision that immediately fuelled speculation over an imminent temporary departure. Already in Italy. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Only a few days later, his arrival in Italy has confirmed exactly that. Real Madrid’s objective is clear: allow the youngster to play regularly at senior level before returning to compete for a place in Jose Mourinho’s first-team squad. The expectation is that regular football in Italy will help the Argentine improve his game against some of Europe’s strongest defensive teams. Medical next before official unveiling The next steps in the process are already clear. Over the coming hours, Mastantuono will undergo his medical examination before signing his contract and being officially presented as a Fiorentina player. From there, he will begin a new chapter in European football, hoping to establish himself in Serie A before eventually returning to Real Madrid ready to challenge for a place in the first team.