In a significant January transfer window move, Dutch forward Donyell Malen has departed Aston Villa to join Italian heavyweights AS Roma. The switch sees the 26-year-old head to Serie A on an initial loan deal for the remainder of the campaign.
Details of the Roma Loan Agreement
The agreement, confirmed on Friday 16 January 2026, will see Malen wear the Roma shirt until the summer. Crucially, the loan deal includes an option for the Italian club to make the move permanent at the season's conclusion, giving them first refusal on the player's signature.
Malen's time at Villa Park was relatively brief. He arrived from Borussia Dortmund just last January in a previous transfer window. During the current season under manager Unai Emery, he featured 29 times across all competitions, finding the net on seven occasions. His role was primarily as competition and cover for established striker Ollie Watkins.
Villa's Attacking Reshuffle and Potential Replacements
Malen's decision to seek a new challenge in a different league prompts questions about Aston Villa's attacking plans for the second half of the season. With the transfer window still open, the Birmingham-based club is expected to explore options to bolster their forward line.
Early speculation has already linked Villa with a familiar face. Reports suggest the club is considering a move to bring back former striker Tammy Abraham, who previously enjoyed a prolific loan spell at Villa Park, as a potential replacement to add depth and competition.
What This Move Means for Malen and Roma
For Donyell Malen, the transfer represents a chance to secure more regular first-team football in a top European league and reignite his career ahead of a potential permanent switch. For Roma, it is a low-risk opportunity to add proven attacking quality to their squad as they push for their seasonal objectives in Serie A.
The deal underscores the fluid nature of the winter market, with Premier League clubs like Aston Villa willing to sanction moves for squad players if it aligns with their broader strategic planning. All eyes will now be on whether Villa activates their reported interest in Abraham or another target before the deadline closes.
