An English club aims to snatch two Real Madrid starlets

Fulham in talks for Gonzalo García and Franco Mastantuono, but Mourinho wants to assess them first

Europe 23 July 2026 at 07:30

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An English club aims to snatch two Real Madrid starlets

Álvaro Arbeloa is eager to reunite with two players he knows inside out. Fulham are now negotiating with Real Madrid to bolster their attack.

Real Madrid could part ways with two of their young talents during the summer transfer window. According to AS, Fulham have opened talks to sign Gonzalo García and Franco Mastantuono. Recently appointed to lead the Cottagers after his brief spell in charge of Los Merengues, Álvaro Arbeloa is believed to be the driving force behind this double swoop.

The London club wants to secure a permanent deal for Gonzalo García. The 22-year-old striker featured in 39 matches, netted 8 goals, and provided 2 assists during the 2025-2026 season. However, his opportunities remain limited due to fierce competition from Kylian Mbappé and Endrick. Under contract until 2030, the Madrid forward also dreams of playing in the Premier League one day.

Two very different deals

As for Mastantuono, Fulham are pushing for a simple one-year loan. Real Madrid, however, are refusing to include a purchase option, wanting to retain full control of the Argentine, who was signed in 2025. At only 18 years old, the former River Plate player has already made 35 appearances and scored 3 goals in his debut season in Spain. Yet with competition from Arda Güler, Brahim Díaz, and Rodrygo, his playing time could be further restricted.

These two arrivals would address Fulham's attacking needs, especially after the departure of Raúl Jiménez. Arbeloa knows Gonzalo well, having coached him at La Fábrica and then with the senior squad, while a loan move would give Mastantuono the chance to toughen up in a demanding league.

José Mourinho, however, holds the key to the negotiations. The Portuguese manager wants to observe both players during preseason before deciding on their role in his project. So no final decision is expected before this evaluation takes place.