Taty Castellanos reveals failed River Plate move

Taty Castellanos River Plate transfer talks have been confirmed by the West Ham United forward, who admitted he came close to joining the Argentine giants earlier in his career.

The 27-year-old, speaking during a live stream with LaAgusneta and Teo D’Elia, opened up about conversations with River Plate staff while he was still playing for New York City FC.

According to La Página Millonaria, River Plate explored a move in the summer of 2022 following the departures of Julián Álvarez to Manchester City and Enzo Fernández to Benfica. Ultimately, a transfer did not materialise.

Castellanos revealed he even spoke directly with Matías Biscay, Marcelo Gallardo’s assistant at the time.

“My friends from Mendoza and my brother are all River Plate fans, they were driving me crazy trying to get me to come,” he said.

“I even spoke with Gallardo’s assistant, Biscay. This was six months before Gallardo ended his first stint at the club.”

The personal connection added pressure, with those close to him eager to see him return to Argentina.

However, La Página Millonaria report that River Plate were unwilling to meet New York City FC’s $15 million valuation. Despite improved finances from player sales, the Argentine club chose not to match the asking price.

As a result, Castellanos moved to Europe instead, joining Girona in 2022 before securing a permanent switch to Lazio a year later.

Castellanos joined West Ham United in January and has scored two goals in nine appearances across all competitions so far. His contract runs until 2030, with an option for an additional year.

Having followed West Ham’s recent fixtures, his role under Nuno Espírito Santo remains evolving rather than fixed. He has shown flashes of movement and pressing intensity but is still integrating into the Premier League rhythm.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions about his long-term future in London. Reports last week linked him with potential interest from Flamengo, suggesting that speculation around his trajectory has not entirely settled.

Castellanos’ immediate focus remains on establishing himself at West Ham and securing consistent minutes. If he can increase his output in the coming months, speculation may cool. Conversely, continued uncertainty could revive interest from South America. Much will depend on his role in the closing stages of the season and the club’s attacking plans for 2026/27.

Should Castellanos have taken the River Plate opportunity, or has his European path ultimately proved the better move?