Real Madrid formally presented Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono on Thursday after completing a €45 million move from River Plate. The unveiling, held at the Valdebebas training complex, coincided with the player’s 18th birthday—making him eligible to sign a professional contract under FIFA rules—and was broadcast live on the club’s platforms. Mastantuono, who will wear the No. 30 shirt under a deal running until June 2031, said he is “living a dream” by joining “the biggest club in the world.” Club president Florentino Pérez hailed him as “one of the greatest talents to emerge,” while Emilio Butragueño and other former icons attended the ceremony. The left-footed attacker confirmed that Paris Saint-Germain and several other clubs had expressed interest, adding that a call from new Madrid coach Xabi Alonso proved decisive. “I can’t wait to work under him,” he told reporters. Mastantuono, who described Lionel Messi as the best player in the world, thanked his family and River Plate for their support. He completed his medical earlier in the day and is expected to take part in his first training session on Friday. Spanish media report that Alonso may include him in the squad for Tuesday’s La Liga opener against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu.