Things can change quickly in football. Jose Mourinho’s time as a big-time manager had seemed over following the former Chelsea boss’ recent spells at Fenerbahce and Benfica. Now, I am not saying those are not big clubs with passionate fanbases. But they most certainly do not have the global visibility of teams from the top five European leagues.
Mourinho is back in the big time though. At least that is the expectation, as he is expected to take over as Real Madrid manager this summer if nothing unforeseen happens at the Bernabeu.
Mourinho will surely look to do things his way, as he has done his entire career. And that could mean saying goodbye to a good number of players. Interestingly, one of them might catch the attention of Xabi Alonso.
According to MARCA, journalist Ramon Alvarez has reported that Mourinho has told Real Madrid that six current first-team players are not part of his plans for next season. One of them is Franco Mastantuono.
Mastantuono was believed to be an Alonso favourite at Real Madrid
Alonso was believed to have played a big part in convincing Mastantuono to join Real Madrid. If he leaves the club this summer, one would imagine that he could try to reunite with him at Chelsea.
Mastantuono did get regular football at Real Madrid while Alonso was still their manager. And while he continues to be highly rated, if Mourinho does not want him, that could mean the end of the road for him at the Bernabeu.
In many ways, Mastantuono would be exactly the kind of signing Chelsea have constantly made in the BlueCo era. He is a highly promising youngster. But it might or might not work out.
That has not stopped Chelsea from signing so many wonderkids over the last few years. And if he is available for the right transfer fee, the club could very easily make a move for him as well.
This is a chance for Chelsea but a risky one
One needs to acknowledge though that Mastantuono has not met expectations since joining Real Madrid. He was one of the brightest talents in Argentine football when Los Blancos signed him.
Mastantuono has managed just three goals and a solitary assist for Real Madrid so far. So, it is not hard to understand why Mourinho might not want to keep him.
But he has not looked like a standout since his move to Europe. So, if Chelsea sign him, it would be a risk, even with the Alonso connection.
This summer transfer window was all about the club signing proven and experienced players. Mastantuono certainly does not fall under that bracket.
