Valentin Castellanos is finally a West Ham United player and the Hammers fans are buzzing to see him in action.
Castellanos is a real talent, and the 27-year-old should offer West Ham much more of a potent threat through the middle, what with his acceleration and finishing ability.
West Ham got a deal to sign Castellanos over the line before Tuesday night’s vital clash with Nottingham Forest at the London Stadium.
The Argentine has 100 career goals to his name in 300 games (Transfermarkt), with his personal highlight coming when he scored four goals for Girona during their 4-2 win against Real Madrid in 2023.
Where will West Ham v Nottingham Forest be WON and LOST? ⚒️
And who needs to step up?
The 27-year-old will provide Nuno Espirito Santo with another much-needed option through the middle at the very least.
He spoke out yesterday after joining the Hammers, but the most interesting thing he said was concerning one of his new teammates.
Valentin Castellanos may have hinted that one exit-linked player is staying at West Ham
The former New York City FC, Girona and Lazio striker spoke about a wide range of topics after completing his move to the Hammers on Monday night.
At one point in the interview, conversation turned to much-maligned Hammer Guido Rodriguez.
Rodriguez has been heavily linked with a West Ham exit in the January transfer window, with Juventus apparently keen to sign him.
However, new signing ‘Taty’ has just inadvertently suggested that the former Real Betis midfielder could well be hanging around for a little while longer.
Castellanos was asked if he is excited about linking up with his fellow countryman – Rodriguez – at the London Stadium, when speaking to WHUFC.com.
The Argentine said: “Yes, yes, obviously. I’ve been with Guido on the national team. I hope I can help him, and he can help me too, both on and off the field.
“That’s sure to be very important because, well, I’m new to this country too, and obviously, having help and an Argentinian in the locker room is a big plus.”
Guido Rodriguez must be sold, released or loaned out
Rodriguez has been really poor for the Hammers since joining from Real Betis on a free transfer in the summer of 2024.
What do you want to see Nuno do differently against Nottingham Forest? 🤔
And is this a make or break game for the Hammers?
The 31-year-old lacks any kind of physicality or dynamism and, as a result, he has struggled to make a positive impact for West Ham.
Getting his £75k-a-week wages off the books will be key for Nuno as he looks to further strengthen his squad.
In spite of all that, some fans may argue that having a fellow Argentine at the club will help Castellanos settle into life at West Ham.
While that may well be true, the cons of having Rodriguez involved with the squad far outweigh the pros.
It’s time for West Ham to part ways with Rodriguez, by any means necessary!
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