EVERTON IN THE HUNT FOR CASTELLANOS

Merseyside giants Everton are the latest team linked with a move for Valentin Castellanos who has been dubbed the new Didier Drogba. Castellanos plays his club football for New York City FC (NYCFC) in the MLS (Major League Soccer). Didier Drogba 2.0 has been in fantastic form for New York City FC this season after netting 11 times in 17 games in all competitions. In addition to those 11 goals, Castellanos has five assists.

Everton manager Frank Lampard could be in the market for one of two strikers this summer with the long-term futures of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlisonat the club uncertain. Both players have been linked with other teams this summer. Richarlison is said to be attracting interest from clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester United and Real Madrid, while Englishman Calvert-Lewin is said to be one of the strikers on the transfer list at Arsenal. Apart from England international Calvert-Lewin, Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus, Sassuolo attacking talent GianlucaScamacca, Napoli player Victor Osimhen and Inter Milan attacker Lautaro Martinez are also on the Arsenal list as regards their search for at least one striker in the wake of the imminent departure of Frenchman Alexandre Lacazette at the end of his contract this summer.

Castellanos was dubbed the new Didier Drogba by MLS UK Show podcast co-host Henry Hevitt. The MLS expert sees similarities between Castellanos and Drogba. Also, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is a fan having previously described him as a quality player. He’s a top-class centre forward according to his manager at NYCFC, Ronny Delia.

Apart from Everton, Castellanos has also been linked with other Premier League teams such as new moneybags Newcastle United and West Ham United. Newcastle United want to strengthen their attack, while West Ham want a striker alternative for first-choice Michail Antonio. Italian Serie A side Bologna are also interested in the player.