Aston Villa’s Donyell Malen mistake is clear as Roma star’s dazzling form takes new turn
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Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media Sun 26 April 2026 10:53, UK Aston Villa are bound to be kicking themselves amid the astonishing form of Donyell Malen after his January move to Roma. Villa transfer chiefs are understood to have included a clause that would turn the buy option into an obligation under certain circumstances, a facet that Roma presumably do not have a problem with now. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom.
VISIT THE VILLA TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Donyell Malen dominating Serie A Football Insider exclusively revealed on Saturday that Villa have opened talks to sign Harry Wilson on a free transfer this summer ahead of his Fulham exit.The exit of Malen in January has left a hole in the squad, and his form since leaving may leave some decision-makers wondering what they missed.Donyell Malen Stats – Serie A 2025-26Appearances14Goals11Assists1Shots 56Touches in opposition box105Successful dribbles13The 27-year-old scored 10 goals in 46 appearances in his time at Villa Park, but was never really given a fair opportunity to establish himself in the team. Just earlier this month, the forward netted a hat-trick against Pisa.Incredibly, Malen now sits joint-third for top scorers in the league, despite making just 14 appearances.While Villa have not been short of goals in recent weeks, they may have liked to have brought the Dutchman off the bench as they lost 1-0 to Fulham on Saturday.What Unai Emery said about Malen’s exitSometimes, the right environment is everything for a player.
Perhaps Malen needed the sun of Italy and the style of Serie A to provoke his best form, and maybe he would not have done the same with the opportunities for Villa.But the question will bug decision-makers, who would have liked to at least attract a fee more appropriate for what he is now doing.Aston Villa can confirm that Donyell Malen has joined Roma for an undisclosed fee.Everyone at Aston Villa would like to thank Donyell for his service to the club and wish him all the very best in his future career. pic.twitter.com/Wa21Iob4JZ— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) January 16, 2026 View Tweet “Players always have the chance to get a deal to leave the club,” Emery said after Malen’s departure in January. When we analysed the three parts, for me I preferred him to stay here but in case he left we are ready to replace him.” 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath.