UMVA has learned that West Ham United is bracing for a mass exodus of top players, with Taty Castellanos' departure all but confirmed if the club suffers relegation to the Championship.
The Hammers face a daunting task on the final day of the Premier League season, requiring a win against a strong Leeds United side and a slip-up from Tottenham against Everton to stay afloat. But even if they manage to defy the odds, Castellanos' stay at West Ham appears to be short-lived.
Castellanos joined West Ham from Lazio in January and has made a decent impact with five Premier League goals in 17 appearances. However, reports suggest that the 27-year-old has no intention of staying with the club if they're relegated.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Castellanos' potential departure has sparked interest from clubs like Flamengo, who were eyeing him during the previous winter transfer window. The Brazilian club could make a move for the Argentine forward in the summer.
West Ham's relegation woes are likely to worsen in the coming weeks and months, with other big-name players expected to follow Castellanos out of the door. The club's struggles will undoubtedly intensify if they're forced to compete in the Championship next season.
Italian journalist Marco Mampreso recently posted that many top players are preparing to bid farewell to West Ham, with Castellanos being one of the first to leave. The striker's intention is clear: he will not play in the Championship.
