New York City FC's Valentin Castellanos could be on his way to the Premier League with Leeds United this summer, sources have told 90min.
The 23-year-old Argentine striker is one of the hottest properties in Major League Soccer after winning the Golden Boot last year with 19 goals in 32 regular-season appearances. Castellanos went on to score three goals in three play-off outings to fire NCYFC to MLS Cup glory, while he's already hit the net 11 times in 18 games this campaign.
90min understands parent club Manchester City turned down the chance to bring the six-time Argentina youth international to the Etihad Stadium, but the Premier League champions - who have already secured a move for Norwegian phenom Erling Haaland - have recommended Castellanos to a number of Premier League clubs - with Leeds thought to be the most interested.
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The Whites have representatives currently in the United States and as well as Castellanos, are understood to be looking at another American-based player. Leeds have already brought in USMNT star Brenden Aaronson from RB Salzburg this summer, reuniting him with his former head coach and fellow American Jesse Marsch.
If Leeds are to capture Castellanos, they'll likely have to fend off interest from a number of other Premier League clubs, with the likes of West Ham, Newcastle, and Everton linked in the recent past. But given Patrick Bamford's injury issues during the 2021/22 season, there's no doubting Leeds are looking for solutions up-front.
Castellanos - who has 53 goals in 126 games for NYCFC in total - represents a highly-rated option within the City Group and MLS.
Source : 90min