Leeds United emerge in Taty Castellanos transfer race as West Ham step back

Leeds United have emerged as a surprise contender in the race for Lazio striker Taty Castellanos, with West Ham United no longer actively pursuing a deal.

Earlier this month, reports in Italy suggested West Ham United had cooled their interest in the Argentine forward, opening the door for other clubs to explore a move. According to Il Messaggero, via LaLazioSiamoNoi, Leeds United are now being positioned as a potential destination as the player looks for a new challenge.

It has been clear for several weeks that Lazio could consider selling Taty Castellanos due to ongoing financial concerns. A sale in January would significantly ease pressure on the club and provide funds to strengthen the squad during the winter window.

While Lazio would prefer to delay any departure until the summer, the report claims an offer in the region of €25m could force their hand. Given Castellanos was signed for around €15m in 2023, such a fee would represent a healthy capital gain for the Rome side.

Leeds’ interest is not new. Castellanos has reportedly been on the club’s radar since 2022, and a move to Elland Road is now being discussed as a realistic option. The Whites would need to meet Lazio’s €25m valuation, but that figure is said to be attractive enough for the Italian club to seriously consider a deal despite their preference for a summer sale.

Competition could yet arrive. Flamengo are also credited with interest, although their current focus is on securing a new contract for head coach Luis Felipe, potentially delaying any concrete move for the striker.

Castellanos, now 27, enjoyed a productive campaign last season, scoring ten goals and establishing himself as a key part of Lazio’s attack. That form has strengthened his market value and placed him in a bracket where clubs with Premier League resources can realistically engage.

From the Italian perspective, this appears to be a move to test the waters. There is a belief that Lazio themselves may have offered Castellanos to potential buyers, including Leeds, to gauge interest and establish whether a January exit is viable.

Much will depend on whether Leeds are prepared to commit to Lazio’s valuation and whether other clubs enter the race. With the January window approaching quickly, Castellanos’ situation is one to watch closely as Lazio weigh financial necessity against sporting stability.

Would Taty Castellanos be the right forward to lead Leeds United’s next phase, or is €25m a gamble too far?