Reporter: Roma aims to acquire Malen in the winter transfer window with a €2 million loan plus a €25 million "mandatory" purchase option.

According to Italian journalist Di Marzio, Roma intends to reinforce their frontline this winter, offering a €2 million loan fee along with a €25 million compulsory buyout fee if they qualify for European tournaments, targeting Aston Villa’s 26-year-old Dutch striker Malen.

Di Marzio reports that Roma is accelerating efforts to sign Malen, having recently submitted an improved offer to Aston Villa. Roma is determined to bring him in during the winter window to boost their attack, with Atlético Madrid as their main rival. Currently fifth in Serie A, Roma’s mandatory purchase clause activates if they qualify for European competition (Champions League, Europa League, or Europa Conference League), rather than being based on the player’s appearances or performance. This offer essentially guarantees the buyout, reflecting Roma’s strong desire for Malen.

Aston Villa acquired Malen from Dortmund in January 2025 for €25 million. Roma’s proposal of a €2 million loan plus a €25 million buyout means Aston Villa would not suffer a loss and would make a modest profit of €2 million.

Malen, currently 26 years old and in his prime, is valued at €25 million by Transfermarkt. He stands 1.76 meters tall, is right-footed, and can play in multiple attacking positions. He serves as a rotational player for Aston Villa, having appeared 29 times across all competitions this season, starting only 11 matches, and contributing 7 goals and 2 assists.

When asked if Malen will join Roma, it’s noted that this being a World Cup year, Malen surely desires to join a top-five league club where he can be a regular starter, striving to secure a spot in the Netherlands’ squad for the World Cup in the Americas.