Struggling £26m West Ham man eyed for escape transfer to South American giants

West Ham United striker Taty Castellanos has emerged as the top target on River Plate's transfer shortlist ahead of the January window, according to Argentine outlet El Intransigente. The 28-year-old forward has struggled for form in the Championship, scoring only once in the league this season despite the Hammers sitting as the division's highest-scoring side.

Castellanos initially joined West Ham in a deal worth around £26 million in January to help their failed Premier League survival bid. Writer James Ray argues that selling the Argentine could help manager Scott Parker raise funds and clear space in the squad for a more clinical striker.