Roma have officially announced the permanent acquisition of centre-forward Donyell Malen from Aston Villa, which was an obligation following the Giallorossi’s European qualification at the end of the 2025-26 season. The Netherlands international joined Roma on loan with an option to buy from Aston Villa during the January transfer window.
Background of the Transfer
Recent reports confirmed that the option to buy clause would become an obligation in the event that Roma qualified for next season’s Europa League. Roma guaranteed that they would be playing in the Europa League at a minimum following Inter’s victory against Lazio in the Coppa Italia final earlier this month, but Gian Piero Gasperini’s side went one better in the final week of the 2025-26 season and secured themselves a spot in the top four, which means that they will be returning to the Champions League in 2026-27.
Impact on Roma
This means that Roma triggered their obligation to buy Malen, which the club have since confirmed in a statement on their website. The Dutch forward has made 20 appearances and scored 15 goals since joining in the January transfer window. Malen’s impact was transformational on Roma’s season, with a whopping 14 goals and two assists from 18 appearances in the Italian top flight during the second half of the campaign.
Contract Details
According to updates from Gianluca Di Marzio, Malen has signed a four-year deal at the Stadio Olimpico, tying him to Roma until the summer of 2030. Roma’s obligation to buy fee is understood to have been worth €25m.
The signing of Donyell Malen is a massive coup for Roma, transforming their attack with his pace and goal-scoring ability. This move will undoubtedly elevate Roma to a new level in the Champions League. With Malen on board, Roma will be a force to be reckoned with in the Italian top flight.
The transfer means that Roma will have a new attacking dimension, with Malen’s pace and skill causing problems for opposing defenders. This move will also give Roma a significant boost in their pursuit of European glory. Aston Villa, on the other hand, will need to find a replacement for Malen’s goal-scoring ability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roma paid €25m for Donyell Malen
Donyell Malen’s contract with Roma is for four years, until 2030
Donyell Malen scored 15 goals for Roma in the 2025-26 season