West Ham United’s struggles continue to mount as they sit 18th in the Premier League, four points adrift of safety following a 3-0 defeat at bottom side Wolves.
The Hammers’ winless streak now stretches to nine games, highlighting just how urgent reinforcements are ahead of the January transfer window.
Amid this chaotic start to the season, West Ham have already moved quickly to strengthen their attack, completing the signing of Valentin ‘Taty’ Castellanos from Lazio just three days after bringing in Brazilian striker Pablo Felipe.
The 27-year-old has scored two goals and supplied three assists in 11 Serie A appearances this term, and has won two caps for Argentina. He has committed to a four-and-a-half-year deal at the London Stadium, with an option for an additional year.
Nuno Espirito Santo identified Castellanos as a key target in his January plans, but the forward comes with a note of caution.
West Ham Sent Castellanos Warning
European football analyst Andy Brassell gave a mixed assessment of what the Hammers are getting in their new No.11.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Trans Europe Express podcast, Brassell said: “Buying a striker for €30million when you’re a Premier League club is not going to change your fortunes beyond recognition.
“Look, if you want to forget that fact, just go onto YouTube and watch the time he scored four times against Real Madrid, and that will make you feel far better about everything.”
Brassell added: “Castellanos is great on his day. You could see him working in the Premier League. He’s strong. He can hold the ball up. He causes bother to defenders. He makes life uncomfortable, but he doesn’t do it on a consistent enough basis.”
The warning could hardly be clearer.
With West Ham floundering at both ends — scoring just 21 goals in 20 games while conceding 41 — the club needs immediate impact from its new signings. Castellanos’ raw talent is evident, but whether he can deliver week in, week out in a relegation battle remains to be seen.
For now, the Hammers’ fans and hierarchy are left hoping their £25 million gamble pays off.
