Former NYCFC striker Valentín Castellanos has officially arrived in East London | OneFootball

In East London, there has been a fascination with New York City FC legend and fan favorite Valentin “Taty” Castellanos. After two seasons in New York, the striker had already been linked to moves to Europe. By the end of 2021, with 19 goals and 8 assists to his name, he was connected to teams all over the world.

Winning the 2021 MLS Cup and the Golden Boot in the same year opened up possibilities all over the world, including the Premier League, where he had always dreamed about playing. Having been linked to West Ham United F.C. starting in the January transfer window of 2022, team owners and former coaches like David Moyes kept an eye on his progression.

After three years of on-and-off talks, Castellanos finally arrived at the London Stadium, not just a much-needed striker, but if he delivers, he becomes the savior of a team that seems destined for relegation.

Valentín Castellanos will look for success like he did at NYCFC

In a bold move amid a turbulent season, as announced on Monday, West Ham United has secured the services of the former NYCFC striker from S.S. Lazio for a reported €29 -30 million on a four-and-a-half-year contract, with an option for an additional year. The 27-year-old arrives at the London Stadium at a critical juncture for the Hammers, who find themselves languishing in 18th place in the Premier League.

The team has just 14 points from 20 matches and a dismal -20 goal difference. Under-pressure manager Nuno Espírito Santo, fresh off an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers, has pinpointed Castellanos as a key target to revitalize the team's attack. Tuesday's loss to Nottingham Forest F.C. did not help, though.

West Ham's struggles this campaign are well documented: they've scored a meager 22 goals in 21 league games, averaging just over one per match. The addition of Castellanos, alongside the recent £20 million signing of Pablo Felipe, signals intent from the board to address their attacking woes. Known for his aggression, high pressing, and ability to attack the box, the Argentine could be the spark Nuno needs.

Some wondered why Castellanoos would sign off on a deal that would send him to a team battling relegation. Nuno explained that his two new players are “players that come with purpose. Players who come with the intention to really help, be brave to join us in this situation."

It is not surprising to hear that about Castellanos for NYCFC fans. He made an impression on fans and contributed in a way that he will live on as a New York legend. His arrival in East London might just be the catalyst for survival and beyond. If he replicates his NYCFC and Girona form, then the Hammers could climb out of danger; if not, it risks being a gamble. One thing's certain: the Argentine's fighting spirit will be tested like never before in claret and blue.

Recent history suggests that Castellanos will follow in a long line of great Argentinian players who have come to West Ham and succeeded: Carlos Tevez, Manuel Lanzini, Pablo Zabaleta, and most recently, Guido Rodriguez. The former NYCFC player's arrival is a sign of hope and, by season’s end, survival.