Donyell Malen’s impressive start at Roma has quickly shifted attention to the future of his transfer from Aston Villa, with reports in Italy suggesting the deal will almost certainly become permanent in the coming months.
The Dutch attacker joined Roma earlier this season and has rapidly established himself as one of the club’s most influential performers. According to Italian media reports, his early impact means the conditions for a permanent transfer from Aston Villa are likely to be triggered soon.
Donyell Malen thriving at Roma after Aston Villa move
Malen has enjoyed an exceptional run of form since arriving in Serie A, scoring six goals in his first seven league appearances for Roma. His performances have quickly made him a favourite among supporters at the Stadio Olimpico.
Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport recently highlighted his influence following another strong display against Juventus, with the forward continuing to deliver decisive contributions in attacking areas.
| Stat (Roma 2025/26) | Donyell Malen |
|---|---|
| Serie A Appearances | 7 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Starts | 7 |
| Minutes Played | Regular starter |
source: sofascore match data – 4 March 2026
Having followed Roma’s recent matches, Malen’s direct style and finishing ability have quickly added a new dimension to the team’s attack.
Transfer clause set to trigger permanent Roma move
Reports from Italy suggest Roma hold an obligation to buy Malen from Aston Villa if certain conditions are met during the season.
The permanent deal is expected to be activated if Roma qualify for either the Champions League or the Europa League. Another clause reportedly requires the Dutch forward to play at least 35 minutes in 50 percent of the club’s matches.
Both scenarios currently appear realistic. Roma remain in the Serie A top four and Malen has started every league game since arriving, placing the activation of the transfer clause firmly on track.
However, it remains subject to the final outcome of the season and official confirmation from the clubs involved.
Juventus interest unlikely to change outcome
Italian newspaper Tuttosport recently suggested Juventus could attempt to sign Malen in the summer, reportedly regretting their failure to secure him during the January transfer window.
However, other reports indicate that Roma are already moving toward completing the permanent transfer earlier than initially expected. If the obligation clause is triggered, any club interested in the player would need to negotiate directly with Roma rather than Aston Villa.
That situation significantly reduces the likelihood of Juventus intervening before the deal becomes official.
Key Insights
- Donyell Malen has scored six goals in his first seven Serie A games for Roma.
- The attacker joined on a deal that includes an obligation to buy from Aston Villa.
- The clause could activate through European qualification or match appearances.
- Roma are currently in the Serie A top four.
- Juventus have reportedly shown interest but may have to negotiate with Roma.
What’s Next?
Roma will continue their push for Champions League qualification in the closing stages of the Serie A campaign. If they secure a European place, the obligation to purchase Malen could automatically be triggered.
In the meantime, the forward’s consistent involvement in matches also moves the deal closer to activation through the appearance clause.
Should both conditions remain on track, Roma are expected to finalise the transfer before the start of the next season.
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 4 Mar 2026 15:04
6 goals in 7.. he was doing more than alright for Villa - such a shame that they let him go so easy.
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