West Ham are interested in signing Lazio striker Valentin Castellanos, according to reports.

The Argentinian international has been in decent form this season, scoring 14 goals and providing 8 assists in 39 appearances.

Caught Offside claim that Castellanos’s performances have attracted the attention of several Premier League teams, including the Hammers, and it is believed that Graham Potter’s side are “close to” tabling a formal proposal for the player.

Lazio are said to value the 26-year-old between €30m (£25m) and €35m (£29.5m) and it remains to be seen whether the London club make an offer close to his valuation.

What do West Ham fans need to know about the forward?

Despite being born in Mendoza, Argentina, Castellanos has never actually played in his homeland, starting out life with Club Universidad de Chile before switching to Uruguayan side CA Torque.

The striker came to the notice of the City Football Group during that spell and he moved to New York City FC – initially on loan – prior to signing on a permanent basis at the start of 2019.

Castellanos impressed during his time in the MLS and it led to him moving to Girona on a temporary basis, where he garnered interest following a successful year with the La Liga side. Lazio paid €15m to secure his services ahead of the 2023/24 season. Over the last two years, he has racked up 85 appearances for the Serie A club.

In terms of his style of play, Caught Offside say he has attributes “similar” to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba. That would suggest he would be well suited to playing as a lone No.9 in the Premier League.

Who are the other teams pursuing Castellanos?

Everton, Wolves and Nottingham Forest are believed to be the three clubs that will compete with West Ham for the Argentine’s signature.

At the moment, it seems like Graham Potter’s side are expected to make the first move to snap up Castellanos but you can’t rule out rivals getting involved.

Click here to see West Ham’s first team squad for the 2024/25 season