AliousPremier League Clubs in Bidding War for £29M ‘Next Drogba’ as Wolves Look to Replace Star Striker
Wolverhampton Wanderers have entered the race for a £29 million-rated striker widely touted as the “next Didier Drogba,” as they brace for a major shake-up in their attacking lineup ahead of the summer transfer window.
With Matheus Cunha attracting serious interest from Manchester United—who are reportedly closing in on activating his £62.5 million release clause—Wolves are actively seeking a dynamic replacement to maintain momentum under head coach Vitor Pereira. Cunha’s departure would leave a significant void after a prolific season in which he netted 15 Premier League goals, and the club is now moving swiftly to reinforce their forward line.
One name high on their shortlist is **Valentin Castellanos**, a powerful Argentine forward currently playing in Italy’s Serie A. Castellanos, 26, has been drawing widespread attention for his blend of strength, aerial ability, and hold-up play—qualities that have led to comparisons with Chelsea legend Didier Drogba. Wolves, flush with potential cash from the impending Cunha sale, could be among the frontrunners to table a formal offer.
According to sources from *Caught Offside*, Castellanos has also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs including Everton, West Ham, and Nottingham Forest. Everton, in particular, are monitoring the situation closely as uncertainty surrounds the future of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has yet to commit to a new contract.
Castellanos has enjoyed a diverse football journey, having started in Chile with Universidad de Chile, then moving through Montevideo City Torque and MLS side New York City FC. He gained prominence in the U.S. after winning the MLS Golden Boot and helping NYCFC lift the 2021 MLS Cup. A successful loan spell at Girona in La Liga—where he netted 13 goals in 35 games—earned him a move to Lazio. Though his first season in Serie A saw a modest four goals, he has since found form, with 10 goals and 3 assists in 29 league appearances this campaign, in addition to four goals in 11 Europa League matches.
Despite being contracted to Lazio, Castellanos could be available for around £29 million—a price tag that is just under half of what Wolves stand to earn from Cunha’s sale. West Ham are believed to be the most advanced in terms of preparing a bid, as new manager Graham Potter eyes major changes to a squad that has underperformed this season.
As the transfer window approaches, the battle to land Castellanos is intensifying, with Wolves’ financial boost from Cunha’s likely departure potentially giving them a crucial advantage. Whether they can seal the deal before rival clubs act remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Castellanos could become one of the most talked-about names of the summer.
Alious
