Manchester United’s relentless hunt for generational talent has taken a dramatic twist, as reports claim the club is eyeing a young prodigy already being hailed as the "next Lionel Messi." But while the Red Devils are keen to make a move, it's their noisy neighbours across the city — Manchester City — who may hold the advantage in the race to secure the wonderkid’s signature.

In a transfer battle that encapsulates everything about the Premier League’s modern arms race, this chase could set the tone for what both clubs expect from the future: a return to dominance for United and continued global supremacy for City.

Who Is the Wonderkid Being Compared to Messi?

The player in question is 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono, currently lighting up the Argentine Primera División with River Plate. Known for his low centre of gravity, insane ball control, and eye for a killer pass, Mastantuono is already drawing comparisons to Messi—not only due to his nationality and left foot, but because of the maturity he shows on the pitch.

European scouts have been watching the teenager for months. Manchester United have reportedly sent representatives to monitor him several times this year, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The club sees him as a long-term investment—a future cornerstone for a squad that desperately needs creativity and vision in the attacking third.

But they're not alone.

City’s Tactical Advantage

Manchester City interest is no surprise. Pep Guardiola has long had a soft spot for technically gifted South American players, particularly those with Messi-like traits. The club’s recruitment model and Guardiola’s reputation for nurturing young stars could tilt the balance in their favour.

More importantly, City have a well-established link with South American talents. Julián Álvarez, another River Plate export, has already flourished under Guardiola, and Mastantuono may be tempted to follow the same path.

In contrast, Manchester United’s recent track record with youth development and big-money transfers has been less convincing. The failure to fully integrate players like Donny van de Beek, Jadon Sancho, and even Mason Greenwood’s situation have cast doubts on the club’s ability to manage young stars.

The £45–£59 Million Price Tag

River Plate are reportedly demanding a fee in the range of £45m to £59m, depending on performance-related clauses. That’s a steep price for a 17-year-old who’s yet to prove himself in European football, but in the context of today’s market, it’s not unreasonable.

Both United and City have the financial muscle to match that fee. However, it may come down to the player’s personal choice—and the project he believes will develop him best.

For Manchester United, securing such a signing would be about more than just football. It would be a signal to fans and rivals alike that the club is serious about rebuilding from the ground up with future global stars, not just marquee names past their prime.

Ten Hag’s Influence and Vision

Erik ten Hag is a known admirer of technical players who can function across multiple attacking roles. Mastantuono fits the bill perfectly. If the deal were to go through, United fans could expect to see the youngster rotated across the wings and even through the middle, especially in a more fluid 4-2-3-1 setup.

Ten Hag is already planning for a squad revamp, and bringing in a player with Mastantuono’s attributes could solve United’s ongoing issues in breaking down deep-lying defences—something they've struggled with repeatedly in recent seasons.

Still, the Dutchman will have to convince the United board to act quickly before City or even other European giants, like Real Madrid or Barcelona, make a move.

A Messi-Level Hype—Is It Justified?

Comparing any young player to Lionel Messi sets a sky-high bar. But the hype around Mastantuono isn’t without substance. Analysts highlight his reading of the game, quick feet in tight spaces, and surprisingly strong physicality for his age.

However, like every young talent, consistency and the ability to adapt to top-level European football will determine his true ceiling.

But United know this gamble is one worth taking.

Where Will He Go?

Right now, it's anyone’s guess. United are reportedly preparing an official proposal, while City have kept their cards close but maintain strong communication with his representatives. Barcelona are also rumoured to be watching closely, which only increases the urgency.

The next few months could be crucial. Mastantuono’s performances in domestic competitions and any possible appearances in continental tournaments will either justify or temper the buzz around him.

Whichever club gets him will not only be making a transfer—they’ll be making a statement.

What This Means for United and City Fans

For Manchester United fans, Mastantuono represents a fresh, exciting vision of the future—something to cling to in a period of inconsistent form and constant change. The club is desperate for a new era and wants to get it right from the ground up. A signing like this brings hope.

For City fans, the idea of adding another Messi-like playmaker to an already stacked squad might seem excessive—but that’s exactly what City do best: stack brilliance on top of brilliance, ensuring long-term dominance.

And for neutrals? This tug-of-war adds another juicy chapter to one of football’s fiercest modern rivalries.

Where to Follow All the Latest Updates?

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Conclusion: One Talent, Two Titans

The chase for Franco Mastantuono is heating up, and it’s no longer just about scouting—it’s about who has the structure, patience, and culture to nurture the next Messi. Manchester United may be the first to express open interest, but Manchester City’s infrastructure and success rate with young talents give them a serious edge.

In the coming weeks, the football world will watch closely. Because in this race, the winner won’t just be getting a teenager—they might be getting the next global icon.