Fabrizio Romano Reveals Donyell Malen Transfer Details: Aston Villa Set for €25m Fee
Transfer news journalist Fabrizio Romano has provided crucial insights into the potential permanent transfer of Donyell Malen from Aston Villa to AS Roma. The Dutch forward, currently on loan at the Italian club, is expected to make his move permanent under specific conditions that could see Villa receive a significant financial boost.
From Villa Bench to Roma Star
Donyell Malen has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent weeks, evolving from a peripheral figure at Aston Villa to becoming a key player for AS Roma. The Netherlands international forward made an immediate impact upon his arrival in Italy, scoring on his debut against Torino on January 18th. Since then, Malen has continued his impressive form, netting four goals in his last four appearances, including two braces against Cagliari and Napoli.
His performances have earned him man of the match awards and rapid popularity among Roma supporters at Stadio Olimpico. The 27-year-old has been deployed as a center-forward, a position many Villa fans had advocated for during his time under manager Unai Emery.
The Obligation to Buy Clause
According to Fabrizio Romano's latest reports, Roma are expected to activate the obligation to buy clause in Malen's loan agreement, which would see Aston Villa receive €25 million (approximately £21.7 million). The clause becomes active under specific conditions: Roma must qualify for either the Champions League or Europa League next season, and Malen must participate in at least 50% of the available matches.
So far, Malen has featured in five of Roma's seven matches since his arrival, missing only two Europa League games due to registration restrictions. With Roma currently positioned fourth in Serie A and maintaining a five-point buffer over sixth-placed Atalanta, European qualification appears increasingly likely. Malen would need to participate in just six of the remaining 15 fixtures to meet the 50% threshold required to trigger the permanent transfer.
Professionalism Through Difficult Times
Malen's success in Italy comes after a challenging period at Villa Park where he struggled for regular playing time. Despite being rotated occasionally with Ollie Watkins under Unai Emery's management, the Dutch forward never established himself as a consistent starter. Throughout this difficult phase, Malen maintained a professional attitude, which has now been rewarded with his impressive performances in Serie A.
The potential transfer represents a significant financial transaction for Aston Villa, who stand to benefit from both the upfront fee and any future sell-on percentage that may be included in the agreement. As Roma continue their push for European qualification, all eyes will be on Malen's continued contributions and whether he meets the criteria to make his Italian adventure permanent.
