With West Ham linked to a number of strikers in the forthcoming [transfer](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-transfer-news/) window, one name has cropped up with suggestions that there is genuine interest from the Hammers.
The Argentine striker Valentín Castellanos, currently at Lazio and widely known as “Taty,” has been on the Hammers’ radar before.
During his time in MLS with New York City, West Ham monitored him closely, and after a loan spell at Girona—where he netted 13 goals in 35 matches—he moved to Lazio in July 2023. Since then, he has scored 16 times in 71 appearances for the Serie A side.
Injury record a concern, but Taty improving
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At 27, Castellanos has already earned two caps for Argentina and is eager to secure a place in the World Cup squad. His contract with Lazio runs until June 2028, but the Italian club are reportedly open to a sale, with an asking price of around £26 million.
Like many strikers West Ham are linked to, Castellanos has had his share of injury setbacks. A hamstring problem sidelined him for 48 days this season, ruling him out of six matches, while last year he missed ten games due to a recurring adductor issue.
Although not regarded as a prolific scorer, he has shown improved form this campaign, contributing two goals and three assists in eight Serie A fixtures.
Former West Ham boss [David Moyes](https://www.claretandhugh.info/david-moyes-bio/) is also said to be keeping tabs on his progress, having made enquiries over the summer. Meanwhile, Real Betis and Nottingham Forest are other clubs believed to be interested in the forward.