Aston Villa mistake to prove critical as Newcastle ‘move in the shadows’ ahead of summer move for Donyell Malen

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Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media Sat 2 May 2026 11:30, UK Aston Villa could not have imagined the explosion of form Donyell Malen would enjoy after they sanctioned his move to Roma in January. Malen enjoyed strong moments in his year since signing for Villa from Borussia Dortmund, but was never entrusted with a consistent starting role by Unai Emery.

He has enjoyed a staggering start to his career in Italy with exactly that at Roma, netting 12 goals in just 16 appearances.Villa transfer chiefs will already be aware of the mistake they have made, and with the likes of Newcastle United now reportedly showing interest, it could get even worse. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom. Donyell MalenStats – Serie A 2025-26 (per 90)Appearances14Goals0.87Shots4.43Chances created0.47Successful dribbles1.03Duels won2.93The forward has largely been playing through the middle for Roma since arriving in Italy, but amid the failures of Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, that would not be a problem for Eddie Howe.Malen has been sensational since completing his move from Villa, with only legendary forward Gabriel Batistuta scoring more goals in his first 15 Serie A games for Roma.According to Corriere dello Sport, the Netherlands international’s exploits in Italy have caught the eye of Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle.The outlet claims the Premier League clubs are “moving in the shadows”, while Roma insist that the 27-year-old is not for sale this summer.It remains to be seen how they would react to a sizable offer, however, with there certainly being an opportunity to double or even triple the measly £21.6m the Italians are paying Villa.Villa punished for Unai Emery’s stubbornness There are some players who simply do not catch Emery’s eye.

The Dutchman did have some brief periods of the 54-year-old’s favour during his time at Villa Park, but they were few and far between.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 Crucially, most of the time, Emery gets his decisions right and Villa benefit from his judgement over his players.In the case of Malen, even the stubborn Spaniard will likely admit that he got it wrong. The Netherlands international will go to the World Cup this summer, and could even emerge with a big-money move elsewhere. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath.