Serie A side Lazio have signed forward Valentin 'Taty' Casetllanos from NYCFC in a record-setting $16.6m deal.
Major League Soccer has yet another record outbound transfer in the books, as Castellanos' move to Lazio becomes the sixth most-expensive outgoing transfer in league history. The 24-year-old originally joined NYCFC from Uruguayan outfit Montevideo City Torque, and he quickly became a star in MLS.
He racked up 58 goals in 124 appearances in all competition from 2019-2022 before being loaned out to Spanish first division side Girona, where he continued his goal scoring run, netting 14 times in 37 games.
Castellanos also provided one of the most memorable moments from the 2022/23 La Liga season, scoring four times against one of the biggest clubs in world football in Real Madrid. Not a single player had done that against Los Blancos in over 75 years in league play until Castellanos showed up.
Now, the 2021 MLS Cup champions and 2021 Golden Boot winner departs for a new challenge with Lazio, who are back in the UEFA Champions League and will need all the depth they can get.
"It's an incredible story and we're delighted to have played a part in his development," NYCFC sporting director David Lee said. "From the moment Taty arrived in New York, his quality, dedication and professionalism were apparent, and it is little surprise that he will continue his career progression at the highest levels in Europe."
"It also continues to show that NYCFC and City Football Group is a fantastic environment for players to improve and develop," he added.
"I'd like to sincerely thank everyone at NYCFC and City Football Group for always looking after me so well and for making this move possible," Castellanos said. "It’s like being part of a family. I’d also like to thank the fans who have always believed in me and supported me every single game."
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This article was originally published on 90min as Taty Castellanos seals transfer from NYCFC to Serie A's Lazio.