Donyell Malen. (Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
Aston Villa’s attacking reshuffle could take another unexpected turn this summer following developments involving Donyell Malen and AS Roma.
The Dutch forward has been in blistering form since joining Roma on loan in January, registering 14 goals and three assists in just 18 appearances.
That impressive run has now been rewarded with a permanent transfer, triggered after Roma secured at least Europa League football for next season. The deal, activated following their Coppa Italia success over Lazio, is worth £21m plus an initial £1m loan fee, with Villa also securing a 10 per cent sell-on clause.
While Villa will benefit financially from the agreement, attention has quickly shifted to how that money might be reinvested — and one of Malen’s own Roma teammates is now firmly on their radar.
Villa Interested in Soule
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Aston Villa have significantly stepped up their interest in Roma winger Matías Soulé “in recent hours,” with recruitment discussions accelerating following the completion of Malen’s permanent switch.
The 23-year-old Argentine has impressed in Serie A this season, contributing six goals and five assists while operating mainly from the right wing. His left-footed style, close control and tendency to drift inside have drawn stylistic comparisons with Ángel Di María.
Soulé, previously described as “quality” by Roma legend Aldair, has been on Villa’s shortlist for some time, but interest has now intensified. Roma are reportedly open to a sale if their valuation of around £34m is met, which would also help the club generate important financial flexibility under UEFA regulations.
From the player’s side, a move to the Premier League is believed to be an attractive option, with Villa’s project seen as a strong step forward in his development.
However, the situation leaves Villa in a delicate position. While they could profit from Malen’s breakthrough form being locked in permanently at Roma, they may now be forced to spend even more on an unproven alternative — a potential swap that could prove as costly as it is risky.
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