Donyell Malen's loan move to Roma (with a £25m obligation) frees Aston Villa to pursue a proven No.9 such as Tammy Abraham — a transfer that would likely shorten Villa's odds on scoring markets and increase Abraham's shots/goal probability. Punters should wait for official confirmations: En-Nesyri links to Forest/Everton and Tonali interest for Juve/City could shift odds across striker and midfield markets.
Malen Moves to Roma, Opening Villa’s Forward Spot
Donyell Malen has travelled to Italy for a medical ahead of a six‑month loan to Roma that includes a reported £25m obligation to buy. The 26‑year‑old, who joined Aston Villa from Borussia Dortmund a year ago, struggled to cement a centre‑forward role under Unai Emery and will seek more regular No.9 minutes at Stadio Olimpico.
Deal and Playing-Time Context
Aston Villa agreed a roughly £2m loan fee while retaining a profit on the initial £19.4m outlay from January 2025. Malen scored three goals in 17 appearances last season and has four Premier League goals in the current campaign. The move is framed around the player’s desire to play more frequently as a central striker.
Villa Target Tammy Abraham as Reinforcement
Malen’s departure creates room in Emery’s squad for another forward before the January window closes, with Tammy Abraham emerging as a clear target. Abraham, 28, remains a Roma player this season but has been loaned to Besiktas, where a permanent switch depends on trigger clauses being met.
What Abraham Would Offer
Abraham brings Premier League-proven finishing and physical presence in the box. For Villa, signing a striker of his profile would be aimed at immediate impact rather than long-term rebuilding, addressing the club’s need for a reliable centre‑forward option.
Juventus and City Monitor Sandro Tonali
Sandro Tonali is reportedly a top summer target for Juventus, with Manchester City also keeping tabs on the Newcastle midfielder’s situation. The 25‑year‑old moved to St James’ Park in 2023 and has since been on the radar of several top clubs.
Transfer Challenges for Tonali
Any move to Serie A would require significant funds and wage negotiations. Tonali’s previous suspension for breaching betting regulations is part of his record and could affect clubs’ assessments, while Newcastle are expected to demand a large fee.
Forest and Everton Chase Youssef En‑Nesyri
Nottingham Forest and Everton have been linked with Fenerbahce striker Youssef En‑Nesyri, who could be available for around £20m. The 28‑year‑old Moroccan forward has attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia as well after two seasons in Turkey.
Profile and Market Value
En‑Nesyri’s reputation stems from his international performances and past La Liga spells. His reported valuation makes him an attainable option for Premier League clubs seeking a physical striker to bolster second halves of seasons.
Betting and Transfer Market Implications
Malen’s departure and potential arrivals should influence short‑term betting markets: Villa’s goal lines and the odds on a new Villa striker to score may shorten if Abraham signs. Interest in En‑Nesyri could affect promoted-shot markets for Forest and Everton, while Tonali speculation may shift odds on Newcastle’s midfield strength next season. As always, bettors should wait for official confirmations before staking money.
Donyell Malen transfer latest as Aston Villa 'in talks' over exit
Aston Villa have agreed a deal for Donyell Malen to move to Roma, paving the way for a further attempt to land Tammy Abraham.
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