Julio Cruz Urges Inter to Think Big: Nico Paz and Mastantuono Named as Ideal Targets

Former Inter striker Julio Cruz has pointed the Nerazzurri toward two of Argentina’s brightest young talents, naming Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono as players he would like to see considered for Inter’s future.

Speaking about possible attacking-midfield options, Cruz made his preference clear:

“Inter? I’d definitely bet on Nico Paz but I know it’s very difficult because it doesn’t depend on him but on Real Madrid, who I know will definitely bring him back.”

Paz has impressed away from Madrid, but Cruz believes the biggest obstacle is not the player’s willingness or Inter’s interest — it is Real Madrid’s control over his future. His comment suggests that while Paz would be an excellent technical fit for Inter, any move would be complicated by Madrid’s intention to keep him in their plans.

Cruz then offered another name: Mastantuono, another Argentine talent with a profile he knows well from River Plate.

“But in that role I also like Mastantuono: I followed him at River.”

For Cruz, Mastantuono represents a potentially smart opportunity. Despite his talent, the youngster has not yet found consistent space at Real Madrid, and Cruz believes that could open the door for another club.

“He doesn’t have much space at Real Madrid, and he’s struggling: it would be a great option.”

The former Nerazzurri forward’s comments highlight a clear idea: Inter should look for creativity, youth and technical quality between the lines. Both Paz and Mastantuono fit that mould — left-footed, inventive, Argentine, and capable of operating in advanced midfield areas.

Still, the path to either player would not be simple. Paz appears tied to Real Madrid’s plans, while Mastantuono’s situation would depend on whether the Spanish club decides to keep developing him internally or allow him to gain minutes elsewhere.

Cruz’s message, however, is straightforward: if Inter want to add imagination and long-term upside to their attack, Argentina remains a market worth watching closely.

Do you like Mastantuono as an option?