Real Madrid has reportedly edged out rivals Barcelona and Atlético Madrid to secure the transfer of highly-rated 13-year-old Celta Vigo youth midfielder Mateo Quintana.
According to a report from Defensa Central, Real Madrid is on the verge of securing the signing of Mateo Quintana, one of Spain’s most exciting young prospects.
The 13-year-old midfielder is currently on the books at Celta Vigo, but the information, originally advanced by journalist Alberto Bravo, paints a clear picture of a transfer moving steadily toward completion despite strong resistance from the Galician club.
Bravo made it clear just how hard Celta fought to keep hold of the teenager. Celta, “aware of this player’s tremendous talent,” had previously promoted Quintana to Cadete B after he scored seven goals in seven games in the Galician Division of Honour.
Despite Celta Vigo’s best efforts to convince the youngster and his family to continue his progression in Galicia, Real Madrid’s project ultimately proved too strong to resist.
The report confirms that Real Madrid has outmanoeuvred several major sides, including Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid, both of whom were keeping a close eye on the player’s development.
The transfer formalities are nearly complete, with Bravo stating: “The formalities are practically sealed, pending an agreement which, barring any complications, should be reached despite Celta’s attempts to retain the youth player.”
He added that the youth midfielder, “born in 2012, will almost certainly play for La Fabrica de Valdebebas.” Real Madrid believes Mateo Quintana is a “raw gem with enormous potential.”