West Ham United 'keeping tabs on New York City FC striker Valentin Castellanos'

West Ham United are reportedly keeping tabs on New York City FC striker Valentin Castellanos ahead of the January transfer window.

The 23-year-old enjoyed an exceptional 2021 season in front of goal for the MLS Cup and Eastern Conference champions, claiming the Golden Boot with 22 strikes in 35 matches.

According to the Daily Mail, Castellanos is valued by NYCFC at around £15m and is being closely monitored by a host of Spanish and Premier League clubs including West Ham.

The report adds that a number of Championship clubs made enquiries for the Argentine last summer, while Besiktas are believed to have seen an offer turned down.

Castellanos has also caught the eye of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who recently heaped praise on the striker.

"I think he is a guy whose next step will be in Europe," the Spaniard said in a press conference on Monday.

"What I've seen, and when the scouting department talk to me, I think he is a quality player ready to make the next step. We will see where."

Castellanos, who still has four years remaining on his contract at the Yankee Stadium, ended the 2021 campaign strongly, scoring nine goals in his final seven appearances to help steer NYCFC to two pieces of silverware.