Leeds United have reportedly been handed the opportunity to land Valentin Castellanos, a target for Everton and Newcastle United, this summer.
According to 90 min, Premier League side Leeds United have been afforded the opportunity to make a move for New York City striker Valentin Castellanos in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Whites are coming off a spectacular run of results on the final day of the season that saw them upset all odds and stave off relegation. There is little time to celebrate as Jesse Marsch and co. will need to considerably strengthen the squad in the summer to prevent another relegation-battling campaign.
A major weakness that the Leeds squad showed was their inability to score goals consistently. Only four teams scored fewer goals than Leeds over the Premier League campaign, and three of those were relegated. Patrick Bamford’s injuries and Rodrigo Moreno’s profligacy meant that they were often found wanting upfront.
A new striker should be on the agenda, and in Castellanos, Leeds could land one of the MLS’s top players. The 23-year-old has 11 goals and five assists in 17 appearances, a sensational return in front of goal. Leeds could do with such a prolific player and now have the shot to snap him up.
Manchester City are aware of the player thanks to their relationship with New York City but have passed on the chance to sign Castellanos. They have now sounded out an alarm to several clubs regarding the Argentine’s availability.
Newcastle United, Everton and West Ham United have all been keen on the 23-year-old in the past. As it stands, it would appear Leeds are the one showing the most interest. With Raphinha likely to leave the club this summer, Leeds must act decisively and replace the Brazilian’s goal-scoring threat.
Everton, too, need a striker, something that could prove to be untenable, should Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin leave Goodison Park. The same can be said of Newcastle, who could also do with an upgrade on Chris Wood. The Magpies have already agreed on a deal for Hugo Ekitike, and it remains to be seen if they will go for someone more experienced than Castellanos.
A good finisher who is also great in the air, Castellanos’s skill set is exactly what Leeds require. Marsch has a track record of bringing out the best in youth and could do the same with the 23-year-old. Leeds will be well served to take this opportunity with both hands and land the New York City striker ahead of Everton, Newcastle and West Ham.
