Change probably
©IMAGO
This article was first published on January 2nd at 7:31am and has been updated with the agreement between Malen and Aston Villa.
There has been regular speculation about Donyell Malen’s possible departure from Borussia Dortmund for around 13 months – now it is becoming very concrete. After consistent reports about the interest of Champions League participants Aston Villa, the 25-year-old Dutchman has now reached an agreement with the Birmingham club, according to “Voetbal International”. In the event of a move, Malen expects a long-term contract.
The attacker is tied to BVB until 2026, but is reportedly allowed to leave. However, an agreement between the clubs is still pending. The attacker’s market value recently fell significantly by 12 million euros to 28 million euros in the Bundesliga update. Malen does not have a regular place under Nuri Şahin; he was on the field for 945 minutes in 20 games this season, i.e. only around half of the possible playing time (five goals/one assist).
According to “The Athletic”, Aston Villa made an initial offer of 18 million euros, which was not enough for Dortmund’s expectations. According to the “Ruhr Nachrichten”, a deal would only come within reach with a base fee of between 25 million and 30 million euros. A change is likely, however, and Dortmund should already be looking for a successor.
It is said that Aston Villa wants to increase its personnel so as not to lose touch with the European places. Last season the club reached fourth place in the Premier League for the first time since 1996, but is currently only eighth. The Villans are four points behind the Champions League places. On Monday morning, Malen was initially still on the BVB training ground.
