Donyell Malen moves closer to Aston Villa exit, work being done as destination emerges
Aston Villa could end the January transfer window without Donyell Malen in their ranks.
Malen has been such an important player for Aston Villa this season, popping up with some vital goals for Unai Emery’s side.
The Dutchman has found the net four times in the Premier League, as well as three times in the Europa League, proving to be the perfect backup option to Ollie Watkins.
However, despite his goalscoring prowess, Malen could be set for a move away from Villa Park this month, with a number of teams in the race for his signature.
Atletico Madrid join Donyell Malen race
Malen has been linked with a move to Roma over the past 48 hours, with Napoli also interested in a deal for the 26-year-old.
The two Italian sides are now facing competition for his signature, though, as according to Gianluca Di Marzio, Atletico Madrid are working to sign the forward.
Diego Simeone sees Malen as their first choice replacement for Giacomo Raspadori, who is expected to join Atalanta in the coming days.
Atletico will have to beat both Roma and Napoli to a deal if they want to secure the former Borussia Dortmund man’s signature.
However, it is still in the balance whether Malen even wants to leave Villa, and he could choose to stay and fight for his place.
Emery’s side will listen to bids for the attacker, but any offer would have to suit the player.
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Donyell Malen exit would open door for new Aston Villa signing
If Malen did leave during the January window, it would open the door for Aston Villa to re-sign Tammy Abraham.
Abraham is currently on loan from Roma at Besiktas, but the Turkish outfit have an option to buy the centre-forward.
Therefore, the Midlands giants would have to negotiate any potential deal with Besiktas if they wanted to bring the England international back to Villa Park.
Abraham scored 26 Championship goals on loan from Chelsea in the 2018-19 season, as Villa were promoted to the Premier League through the play-offs.
The former Villan is thought to be keen on the move, with Emery holding a long-term interest in him.
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