NYCFC denies River plate's offer for Taty Castellanos... again

Days after reports surfaced that River Plate's $10 million bid for Taty Castellanos had been denied by New York City FC, it has been reported that the Argentinian club has again enquired about the striker's services. And after another offer, it seems that NYCFC has remained steadfast when it comes to their valuation of Castellanos and again have turned the offer down.

NYCFC has denied River Plate's $11.5 million offer, despite other incentives

As a compromise due to not willing to match NYCFC's $15 million appraisal of Castellanos, River Plate instead offered the club $11.5 million and 50% of the player's economic rights. For any who may be unaware, 50% of economic rights would translate to New York City receiving half of a future transfer fee should River Plate decide to sell Castellanos in the future.

NYCFC countered with an offer of $13.5 million, while retaining the 50% economic rights offer. River Plate were not willing to fork out the extra $2 million, killing any deal between the two sides for a second time. This was originally reported by Daniel Bocatto of ESPN Brasil.

ESPN colleague @Bocatto_Daniel reporting that #NYCFC has turned down another offer from River Plate for Taty Castellanos, this for $11.5m for 50% of the player's pass. The Blues wanted $13.5m for 50%. He reports that River won't go any higher. https://t.co/YsMpeAZkjo
— Jeff Carlisle (@JeffreyCarlisle) February 16, 2022

With each passing day, it seems more likely that New York City could retain Taty Castellanos until the summer transfer window where the star striker will hopefully attract more high-paying suitors from Europe. In his first appearance in the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League, Castellanos picked up right where he left off in 2021, scoring a brace inside 30 minutes to see New York City to an easy, non-dramatic 2-0 away leg victory over Santos de Guapilles. The CONCACAF Champions League ends in May and should NYCFC be able to stave off the South American onslaught — assuming they aren't willing to match the $15 million asking price — Castellanos could play a pivotal role within the team as they look to become the first-ever MLS club to hoist the CCL championship and represent MLS at the FIFA Club World Cup.