Claret & Hugh can exclusively reveal today that West Ham United are exploring the possibility of selling striker Taty Castellanos during the January transfer window. However, the chances of Everton returning for the Argentine have been described as “unlikely” by a football agent speaking to C&H.
Everton were reported to have made a deadline-day bid at the end of the summer transfer window, but with West Ham unable to source a replacement in time, the offer was rejected. The Premier League club’s interest was substantial, although there is currently no indication that David Moyes will renew his pursuit.
It would be fair to say that Castellanos has been something of a disappointment in the Championship this season, and West Ham are now actively looking to recruit another forward when the window opens in January. Director of Player Recruitment Nils Koppen has already begun making enquiries to agents and clubs as the Hammers prepare to strengthen Scott Parker’s squad.
Koppen wants to sign a striker in January
West Ham Have Already Approached A Striker
Speaking to Claret & Hugh this morning, our source confirmed that the club’s search for a new centre-forward is already underway.
“Nils has already made an approach for one striker in France.”
When asked whether there could also be departures from West Ham’s attacking department, the agent added:
“West Ham would sell Castellanos if an offer came in.”
The source did not specify how much West Ham would require for the Argentine, nor did they identify the striker Koppen has approached. However, the comments suggest that the club are prepared to consider a significant change to their attacking options in January.
Castellanos Could Leave West Ham After Just One Year
Castellanos cost West Ham £27 million when he arrived from Lazio in January, but his performances in the Championship have fallen well short of expectations. The striker’s difficulties have been evident throughout the campaign, with his lack of goals already raising serious questions about his future.
Everton’s previous interest was first reported in September, when it emerged that West Ham had been prepared to consider a substantial offer but could not find a suitable replacement before the deadline.
The possibility of a January departure has also been discussed previously, although today’s information provides a fresh indication that the club are actively exploring their options.
It will come as little surprise to anybody who has watched Castellanos this season that West Ham would consider moving him on. The Argentine has struggled to make the impact expected of a £27 million striker, and Parker is now beginning the process of assessing what he needs from his squad.
Whether a suitable offer arrives remains to be seen, particularly with a return from Everton considered unlikely by our source. But with Koppen already approaching potential replacements, it appears West Ham are preparing for the possibility of a significant change up front when the January window opens.