Fulham’s push for a mid‑table boost hinges on Real Madrid’s costly loan target

Fulham, under new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, are looking to bolster a squad targeting a higher mid‑table finish, and have turned their attention to Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono, whom they hope to secure on a season‑long loan that includes an option to buy.

Real Madrid paid €63.2 million to sign the Argentine teenager from River Plate last summer, making him one of the club’s most expensive acquisitions. The fee underscores the stakes of any potential move.

His debut campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu ended in disappointment, as he struggled to secure regular playing time despite the high expectations placed on him.

During the same summer window Real Madrid also completed the signing of Bernardo Silva and saw Endrick return from his loan spell, leaving Mastantuono linked with a possible loan elsewhere.

Alvaro Arbeloa, appointed as Fulham’s head coach, worked with Mastantuono last season at Real Madrid but did not utilise his qualities much, and now believes the Argentine could be an excellent addition as Fulham target a higher mid‑table finish. Mastantuono demonstrated quality and potential during his time at River Plate, suggesting he could thrive with regular first‑team exposure in the English league.

According to Diario AS, Fulham have registered interest and are keen on signing him on a loan deal that includes an option to buy at the end of the season.

Real Madrid are skeptical about the proposal, uneasy about a loan that includes an option to buy, and having invested €63.2 million they are reluctant to risk losing control of a player they still view as a long‑term asset.

River Plate, his boy‑hood club, and Como have also enquired about a possible loan, offering Real Madrid alternatives, while Mastantuono’s representatives worry about a pattern at the Bernabeu where few loaned players return to the first team.

The Spanish giants must weigh Fulham’s offer against other suitors and their own concerns before deciding on the player’s immediate future.