Chelsea plot move for record-breaking wonderkid from the same academy as Enzo Fernandez

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Chelsea are one of several top clubs linked with a move to sign a highly-rated youngster from South America.

In recent years, Chelsea have targeted some of the best rising stars on the South American continent.

The Blues will officially sign wonderkids Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez, both aged 17, later in 2025. Apparently, Chelsea think they’ve hit the jackpot with Estevao after agreeing to sign the Brazilian winger from Palmeiras.

Now, Enzo Maresca’s side are reportedly plotting a move to sign a young talent who’s come through the same academy as Blues star Enzo Fernandez.

• READ MORE: Chelsea have already signed the three ‘most advanced’ youngsters in world football as Estevao Willian leads the way

Chelsea interested in signing Franco Mastantuono

According to Sky Sports, Chelsea are among the European sides interested in signing River Plate youngster Franco Mastantuono.

It is understood that the Blues, Manchester United, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid admire the 17-year-old wonderkid. Apparently, Mastantuono has a release clause in his contract worth around €45m (£38m), and his current deal expires in 2026.

The report adds that the attacking midfielder is viewed as one of the most promising talents in Argentina after breaking into the River Plate first team.

River Plate, the Argentine giants, have a great history of bringing through future stars from their academy. Mastantuono is following in the footsteps of players such as Chelsea’s Fernandez and Atletico’s Julian Alvarez.

Back in December 2024, it was reported that Chelsea could push hard to sign Mastantuono. However, it looks like they now face huge competition from many top clubs in Europe for the left-footed creative playmaker.

Franco Mastantuono is a record-breaking talent

Mastantuono, who doesn’t turn 18 until August, has already played 53 first-team matches in River Plate colours.

Interestingly, the Argentine teenager actually holds the record for being the youngest-ever goalscorer in the club’s history.

On paper, he definitely fits the type of profile that Chelsea have prioritised in the transfer market across recent windows.

While Mastantuono clearly looks like a star in the making, we suspect some Blues fans may be pulling their hair out because many are desperate to see the club sign more experienced individuals. Joe Cole’s message to the Chelsea owners is they need a balance of youth and know-how in the squad moving forward.