MLS Golden Boot holder Castellanos joins Girona on loan

Valentin Castellanos has joined newly promoted LaLiga side Girona from New York City FC on a season-long loan.

Castellanos scored 19 goals in 32 games last season to top the Major League Soccer scoring charts and help NYCFC claim their first-ever MLS Cup triumph.

The 23-year-old is tied with Austin FC's Sebastian Driussi for the top scorers this season, while also providing two assists.

Having been linked with a move away from New York for almost 18 months, it was confirmed on Monday that Castellanos has joined Girona until June 2023.

The agreement in place between NYCFC and Girona, who both operate under the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella, does not contain the option to make the transfer permanent.

However, NYCFC sporting director David Lee is ready to cash in on Castellanos if the right offer is made, with his move to one of Europe's top leagues only boosting his profile.

"By Taty performing in Europe, this will give us the opportunity to [sell] him at a higher valuation and higher number than what we have had so far in this transfer window," said said Lee.

Castellanos spent four and a half years with NYCFC after joining Uruguayan side Torque - another of their sister clubs - on a first loan deal in 2018.

He is the second top scorer in NYCFC history, behind Spanish great David Villa, with 50 goals in 109 regular season appearances.

"Although it is difficult to leave this club, I firmly believe that it is the right time for me to move to Europe, which has always been a personal dream of mine," said Castellanos.

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"I feel confident and ready for a new challenge. I would like to thank NYCFC and Girona for giving me this opportunity and finding a way for me to continue my journey and prove myself."