Xabi Alonso played a vital role in convincing Franco Mastantuono to agree to join Real Madrid as the Spanish side close in on his signing.

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Real Madrid closing in on Mastantuono dealXabi Alonso spoke directly to the playerTeenager set to represent Argentina teamFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

According to a report by , Madrid are closing in on signing Mastantuono from River Plate and newly-appointed manager Alonso has called up the 17-year-old to convince him. Madrid will have to match the €45 million ($51m/£37m) release clause in his contract, but it appears he is on his way to the Spanish capital. The report adds he will represent the Argentine player in the upcoming Club World Cup and then join Madrid.

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Madrid are aware of Paris Saint-Germain’s pursuit of the young midfielder and even appeared set to miss out on his signing as the French giants moved ahead in the race. His entourage is in advanced talks with Los Blancos as of now, and last Tuesday they held a key meeting where chief scout Juni Calafat was present.

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Mastantuono has received a call-up to the Argentina squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Chile and could make his national team debut.

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Madrid will hope to have the signing confirmed soon, with Alonso's side later starting their Club World Cup campaign Al-Hilal on June 18, a day after River Plate face Urawa Red Diamonds.