Chelsea join Arsenal in race to sign Argentine playmaker: Reports

Chelsea and Arsenal are locked in a battle for River Plate prodigy Franco Mastantuono, according to Caught Offside. The Argentinean youngster is the latest talent to emerge at the South American outfit and has attracted attention from multiple clubs in Europe.

Mastantuono rose through the ranks at El Monumental and broke into the first team this year. The 17-year-old has since appeared 29 times for the Argentinean club, registering three goals and two assists.

A left-footed attacker, Mastantuono has already been compared to Lamine Yamal, who has been outstanding for Barcelona and Spain of late. Interestingly, the Argentinean was born one month and a day after the Spaniard.

Chelsea and Arsenal are among the clubs eyeing the Argentinean with interest. The Gunners have enjoyed a steady rise under Mikel Arteta, who has assembled an enviable squad at the Emirates.

However, the Spaniard remains keen to continuously improve his roster and is keeping an eye out for the best talents in the land. Securing Mastantuono's services would be a statement of intent from Arsenal.

However, they will have to compete with the Blues for the South American prodigy. Chelsea have invested heavily in youth players in recent transfer windows and can boast of some of the best rising talents in the world right now. Mastantuono would fit perfectly into their transfer plans.

The player's contract with River Plate expires in 2026 and the club reportedly want €45m to let him go. However, prising him away from Estadio Monumental won't be a straightforward affair.

Chelsea and Arsenal will face Real Madrid competition for Franco Mastantuono

As per the aforementioned report, Real Madrid are the favorites to secure the youngster's services and have already held talks to facilitate a move, which will be bad news for Chelsea and Arsenal.

Los Blancos have a tremendous record in the South American market in recent years. Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo have gone from unknown names to household stars at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The London duo cannot match the success and charm of the La Liga champions but they cannot be ruled out of the race yet. It is believed that the player prefers a move to Real Madrid but the road to the first team at the club isn't easy.

There's tremendous competition for the attacking places under Carlo Ancelotti, which could tilt the sage in Chelsea and Arsenal's favor.