Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has revealed his tactical vision for Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono, informing the 17-year-old that he plans to deploy him as "an old-school number 10" at the Santiago Bernabéu, according to Diario Olé.
Mastantuono is reportedly on the verge of joining the Spanish giants this summer after turning down approaches from Manchester United and several other elite European clubs. Los Blancos are moving swiftly to secure the River Plate midfielder's signature during the current transfer window.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Mastantuono has made his preference clear, consistently telling interested clubs that his priority is a move to Real Madrid. The teenager is said to be eager to begin his European journey with the 14-time Champions League winners next season.
Madrid's Rebuild Under Alonso
Real Madrid are determined to strengthen their squad following a disappointing previous campaign where they failed to secure any major silverware, missing out on the Copa del Rey, LaLiga, and UEFA Champions League titles.
The club's hierarchy is focused on providing Alonso with reinforcements after the Spaniard took over from Carlo Ancelotti last month. Mastantuono's potential arrival signals Madrid's continued commitment to recruiting young talent with exceptional technical ability.
The creative midfielder's role as a traditional number 10 suggests Alonso may be planning tactical adjustments to the system employed by his predecessor, potentially creating a more central playmaking position that has become increasingly rare in modern football.
Mastantuono has drawn comparisons to former Argentine playmakers due to his vision, close control, and ability to operate between the lines—qualities that align perfectly with the traditional number 10 role Alonso envisions for him.
As Madrid continues its summer recruitment drive, fans will be watching closely to see how Alonso integrates young talents like Mastantuono into a squad looking to reclaim domestic and European supremacy in the upcoming season.