Valentin Castellanos has indicated that the right time to leave the MLS and play in Europe is now, as reported by LeedsLive.
The New York City striker is one of a host of forwards to be linked with a move to Leeds United this summer, and he believes now is the right time to test himself on a bigger stage. In a recent interview he said “I’ve been in this league for a while. I’d like to keep growing. Being young and having the chance to go to another league in Europe, I think it would be a big thing and a dream come true for me.”
“Sometimes you’re not ready or it’s not the right time. But, right now, I’m at my best. I think right now it is an opportunity, and it would be very good to continue growing in Europe and continue doing what I have been doing here.
Valentin Castellanos delivers 'dream' #LUFC transfer verdict as Newcastle United circle#lufc https://t.co/KoyDeR8NYU
— Leeds United Live (@liveleedsunited) July 11, 2022
The 23 year old Argentinian certainly looks the part, although untested outside the MLS. He could be perfect for Jesse Marsch’s Leeds. They create a lot of chances with fast counter attacks and high pressing, all they need is someone to finish of the move. With Patrick Bamford out for the majority of the 2021/22 season it was left to youngsters Joe Gelhardt, Sam Greenwood or an out of position Dan James to lead the line. Castellanos could solve Marsch’s problem of putting the ball in the net. He has proved to be a natural goal scorer with 12 goals in 15 appearances so far this season, and a total in the MLS of 132 appearances 58 goals and 23 assists.
Leeds fans would be excited to see him sign for The whites and that would soften the blow of what looks likely to see them losing on Charles De Ketelaere from Club Brugge as the Belgian seems to prefer a switch to AC Milan.
Castellanos added “I’m competing for the Golden Boot again and I don’t put a ceiling on myself. I always want more. I want to keep winning things, be the best player in my position, the best player in my team.”
“Although there have been no concrete offers at this time, I am calm. At the same time, I want to continue my development somewhere else. That would be very good too, for my development and to be able to see how far I can go and see where I fit in Europe. It is a goal that I would like to have and see where I am at a European level.”
Would fans be happy to see Valentin Castellanos make the switch to Leeds and the Premier League?
In case you missed it: Leeds move on from De Ketelaere.