Arsenal and Chelsea to fight for £56m Malen in January

Arsenal and Chelsea will compete to sign AS Roma forward Donyell Malen in the January transfer window, according to journalist Ekrem Konur. The 27-year-old is valued at £56 million and is open to returning to the Premier League after a short spell at Aston Villa.

  • Target: Donyell Malen, AS Roma forward
  • Clubs interested: Arsenal and Chelsea
  • Fee: £56 million
  • Window: January 2027
  • Player's stance: Open to Premier League return
  • Source: Ekrem Konur

Deal details

AS Roma are prepared to listen to offers for Malen and a deal could be done for £56 million, as reported by Ekrem Konur. The Italian club's valuation is considered reasonable and personal terms are not expected to be a major obstacle. Both Arsenal and Chelsea are eyeing the player's services as early as the January transfer window.

The numbers

  • Goals this season: 6
  • Assists this season: 1
  • Appearances this season: 5
  • Transfer fee: £56 million

Why Arsenal may have the edge

Arsenal are currently using Kai Havertz as their number nine, with Viktor Gyokeres not a key fixture in Mikel Arteta's plans. Following the sale of Gabriel Jesus to Barcelona, the Gunners may view the signing of a natural central forward favourably in January. Malen's sharp finishing, intelligent movement in the box and ability to pick the ball up deep and make direct runs could suit Arteta's transitional style. He would likely play more regularly at Arsenal than at Chelsea, where Joao Pedro has been terrific at the start of the season.

At Chelsea, Xabi Alonso has no reason to seek another number nine given Joao Pedro's form, so any move for Malen would only be to improve squad depth. That could make Arsenal the more attractive destination for regular starts, and the defending champions will feel they have the upper hand in any battle for his signature.

Talking points

  • Would Malen start ahead of Havertz at Arsenal, or is he just another squad option?
  • Should Chelsea spend £56m on a backup striker when Joao Pedro is in such fine form?
  • Is Malen's Premier League unfinished business a real motivation, or just a convenient narrative?
  • With Roma ready to sell, is £56m a bargain in the current market for a proven goalscorer?

What happens next

Both clubs will continue to monitor Malen's performances for Roma ahead of the January window. Arsenal's need for a natural centre-forward appears more pressing, but Chelsea's financial muscle could yet sway the race. The coming weeks will reveal whether either club makes a formal approach.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Donyell Malen?

Donyell Malen is a 27-year-old forward currently playing for AS Roma. He has scored six goals and provided one assist in five outings this season.

How much would Donyell Malen cost?

AS Roma value Malen at £56 million, and a deal could be done for that fee in January, according to journalist Ekrem Konur.

Which clubs are interested in Donyell Malen?

Arsenal and Chelsea are both keen on signing Malen, with both clubs eyeing a move as early as the January transfer window.

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