West Ham United have moved swiftly in the January transfer window to secure a deal for Lazio striker Valentin Castellanos, as manager Nuno Espirito Santo seeks the firepower needed to climb out of the Premier League relegation zone.
Hammers Strike £25m Deal for Argentinian Forward
In a bid to address a critical shortage of goals, West Ham have agreed a fee worth €29 million (approximately £25 million) with Serie A side Lazio for the signature of Valentin 'Taty' Castellanos. The news was confirmed on Thursday evening by renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who gave the move his signature 'here we go' announcement.
The Hammers find themselves in a precarious position, sitting in the bottom three on New Year's Day and four points from safety, currently held by Nottingham Forest. The summer signing of Callum Wilson has not provided the intended solution due to the veteran's injury issues, while Niclas Fullkrug is expected to depart the London Stadium this month.
Castellanos Brings Versatility and Flair
The 26-year-old Argentinian striker offers Nuno Espirito Santo a versatile attacking option. Primarily a central striker, Castellanos is also comfortable operating on either flank. Despite being hampered by a hamstring problem this season, limiting him to just ten Serie A appearances, he has still managed to contribute two goals and three assists.
His previous campaign was more productive, yielding a combined 15 goals and assists, demonstrating the threat he can pose. His arrival is part of a broader attacking overhaul, with deals also progressing for Gil Vicente's Pablo and free agent Adama Traore.
Famous Rabona Assist Captured Lazio Fans' Hearts
Castellanos will bring a touch of South American flair to the London Stadium, best exemplified by a moment of magic last season. In a 4-0 victory over Hellas Verona, the forward executed an audacious rabona cross to set up teammate Mattia Zaccagni, a assist that quickly went viral.
Speaking after the match, his then-teammate Matteo Guendouzi hailed the moment as "beautiful." Castellanos himself played it down with a laugh, stating, "I always do it! When there isn’t a good option on the left, better to try a rabona."
West Ham will be hoping he can replicate such creativity in the Premier League, with crucial fixtures against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest looming immediately after the transfer window. The club's hierarchy are acting decisively to provide Nuno with the tools required for a survival fight.
