Transfer Tracker

Report: Palmeiras make $12.5m bid for NYCFC striker Taty Castellanos

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Report

Brazilian side Palmeiras have made a near-$12.5 million offer for New York City FC striker Taty Castellanos, according to ESPN.

Citing sources, ESPN reports the bid came in the days following NYCFCā€™s MLS Cup 2021 win over the Portland Timbers, a game in which Castellanos scored late in the first half and converted during the penalty kick shootout.

The 23-year-old captured the 2021 Golden Boot presented by Audi after his 19g/8a campaign, then added three goals in three Audi MLS Cup Playoff matches. According to ESPN, the Brazilian Serie A sideā€™s bid falls below NYCFCā€™s valuation of Castellanos, with the Cityzens seeking in excess of $15 million for the Argentine forward.

In the immediate aftermath of NYCFCā€™s MLS Cup triumph, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said he believes Castellanos is ready to take the next step in Europe.

Itā€™s not the first time Palmeiras have expressed interest, with the back-to-back Copa Libertadores winners also reportedly being linked with Castellanos in February. The Brazilian giants also landed midfielder Eduard Atuesta from LAFC in mid-December, taking a liking to the MLS transfer market.

Last May, Castellanos signed a new five-year contract extension (through 2025) with NYCFC.