West Ham Opinion: Why West Ham should sign Timothy Castagne?

According to respected Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Celtic had a £9m bid rejected from Atalanta for full-back Timothy Castagne in January.

Celtic have been after a right-back for quite some time and were interested in Timothy Castagne, with both Mikael Lustig and Cristian Gamboa’s contracts expiring this summer.

And the matter of fact why the Hoops had apparently made the Belgian defender their top target last month is due to his performances in Atalanta colours this season.

Timothy Castagne, 23, has been in the form of his life and has made 20 appearances in all competitions for Atalanta this season. Since making the move from Genk in July 2017, he has become a key part of the Italian side’s defence and made his international debut for Belgium last September.

And while Atalanta refused to sell Castagne in January, they could be tempted to do business in the summer transfer window if any club comes up with an irresistible offer.

To put things into perspective, West Ham should make a big offer to sign the Belgian full-back ahead of the 2019/20 campaign.

Pablo Zabaleta’s future with West Ham appears to be up in the air. The Argentinian is considering retiring at the end of the campaign, and could be offered a backroom role at Manchester City, according to The Sun.

Should Zabaleta choose to take up such a role, or simply move on to a new club in the summer, the Hammers would have Ryan Fredericks as the only option at right-back. So signing a new right-back is of paramount importance and Manuel Pellegrini would do a wonderful job by making a move for Castagne.

Castagne is a traditional right-back, who is also comfortable playing on the other side of the defence or as a wing-back. Hence, versatility to play in multiple positions across the backline is one of his greatest assets.

Blessed with a good technique and engine, the Belgian is an accomplished passer of the ball and works tirelessly off the ball. The former Genk man may not boast of great speed and agility but he makes it up with his positional awareness and understanding of the game.

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Not to forget Castagne is very diligent defensively, whilst also having the knack of going forward and joining the attacks when required.

Verdict

Hence, it’s a no-brainer for Pellegrini to invest on a new right-back in the summer transfer window and Castagne, with his all-round ability and talent, would be a wonderful addition for West Ham.