Leeds United will reportedly compete with West Ham United in the race to sign 27-year-old Argentine striker Valentin Castellanos from Serie A club Lazio.
According to a report by Il Messaggero, as relayed by Calciomercato, Valentin Castellanos is the subject of interest from Leeds United. The Whites are keen on reinforcing their offensive unit by signing a striker in the winter transfer window. So, the 27-year-old Lazio centre-forward has emerged as a target for the West Yorkshire outfit.
Leeds United will not be alone in the battle for the South American attacker’s signature, as he is also a target for West Ham United. However, the two Premier League clubs face stiff competition from Flamengo for his services, with the Brazilian outfit pushing hard to get a deal done.
How has Valentin Castellanos fared in Serie A?
Valentino Castellanos has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Lazio from New York City FC in July 2023. Born in Mendoza, the 27-year-old spent his formative years in South America and graduated from the youth division at Club Universidad de Chile. Since then, the player has represented clubs in Uruguay, the USA, and Spain before landing on his feet in Serie A.
Meanwhile, a hamstring injury has hampered Castellanos in the 2025/26 season, as he has managed only 736 minutes of game time in 11 outings while chipping in with two goals and three assists. However, the player’s future at the Serie A club is uncertain, with the situation capturing the attention of several Premier League clubs, including West Ham United and Leeds United.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Leeds United’s interest in Valentin Castellanos is somewhat surprising amid Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s irresistible form. However, the English striker has struggled with fitness issues in the last few seasons. So, it is sensible for Leeds United to consider signing a striker in the winter transfer window.
As for West Ham United, the Hammers have had their sights set on Castellanos for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as Niclas Fullkrug will spend the second half of the 2025/26 season with AC Milan. Additionally, Callum Wilson is approaching the twilight of his career. So, Taty Castellanos is an option worth considering for West Ham.
However, Leeds United and West Ham are not alone in the battle for the 27-year-old Argentine striker’s signature, as Flamengo will push hard to secure his services in the winter transfer window. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Castellanos.
