Portuguese sports outlet Record have reported that Benfica are close to capturing Argentinian centre-forward, Taty Castellanos (24).
Castellanos plays for MLS side New York City and was on loan at La Liga club Girona for the 2022/23 season. In their first season back in the top flight of Spanish football, Girona finished 10th, helped largely by Castellanos’ 14 goal contributions in 35 appearances. The striker’s name may sound familiar to those who remember Girona’s 4-2 demolition of Real Madrid, where Castellanos scored all four of his club’s goals to win them the historic match, proving his abilities in Europe for the first time in his career.
Benfica, who are eager to expand their attacking depth, find Castellanos’ €15m release clause compelling, but still want a smaller fee in a potential deal. Record have reported that Benfica are willing to include Brazilian right-back Gilberto (30) in a potential swap deal with NYCFC accompanied by a €4m fee. However, in order to get a deal over the line, the Encarnados will have to act quickly as Sevilla, West Ham, and Bayer Leverkusen have all been said to be keen on a potential transfer.
A transfer for Castellanos looks incredibly likely, but whether that transfer will be to the Portuguese capital remains to be seen.
Andrew Abrantes | Get Football
