According to Jack Gaughan of The Daily Mail, it appears West Ham United have set their sights on a new striker target in New York City FC star Valentin Castellanos.

The Lowdown: West Ham still in forward chase...

Nearly a year since club record signing Sebastien Haller unceremoniously departed the club for Ajax, manager David Moyes still hasn't seen his replacement come through the door.

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-latest-updates/" title="West Ham latest updates!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

West Ham, after having confirmed bids made since January 2021, continue their quest to sign a striking alternative to Michail Antonio and there have been no shortage of rumours.

Adam Hlozek, Andrea Belotti and Arthur Cabral are just a few of the many names linked with a move to the London Stadium recently and The Mail have now shared news on a brand new name.

The Latest: West Ham set sights on Castellanos...

As per Gaughan, the Hammers, Moyes and recruitment chief Rob Newman are now tracking MLS rising star Castellanos as they set their sights on an in-form target outside of Europe.

Casting their eyes far and wide, it appears West Ham have now taken an interest in the 23-year-old as he sets the American top flight alight with imperious form.

Playing a heavy role in winning NYCFC their first ever MLS Cup title, this has apparently done enough to attract West Ham's attention.

The Verdict: Interesting fresh target...

At just 23-years-old and coming off the back of a very prolific season, Moyes could do far worse for an outside candidate than Castellanos despite his lack of top level, competitive experience in the European leagues.

Indeed, the centre-forward has even drawn admiration from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who called him a 'quality player' - perhaps indicating there is some real potential to be had here.

Also lauded as a 'top class' centre-forward by his New York City boss Ronny Deila, Castellanos' 23 goals and nine assists across 36 appearances in all competitions in 2021 just proves that he is adept at finding the net (Transfermarkt).

The Argentine ace, judging by his most impressive campaign to date, will certainly improve on his 47-goal career tally overall - with the only question being will he do it in the Premier League under Moyes?

In other news: Approach already made: West Ham now willing to pay asking price for towering striker, find out more here.