Arsenal and Chelsea have both made very strong starts to the season off the back of busy summer transfer windows. The Londoners, however, are already planning for more reinforcements in 2027.
Ekrem Konur has reported that the Blues and the Gunners are set to go head-to-head in a battle to sign Donyell Malen from AS Roma after the 27-year-old’s strong recent form in front of goal, which has seen him bag six goals and one assist in five outings.
Both, Arsenal and Chelsea, are eyeing the player’s services as early as in the January transfer window with AS Roma also prepared to listen to offers for him, with the journalist adding that a deal could be done for £56 million.
Malen had a short-lived career at Aston Villa but feels he has unfinished business in the Premier League, and therefore, he is open to returning to the English top-flight amidst interest from Arsenal and Chelsea.
Arsenal could trump Chelsea to sign Malen
If a battle for Donyell Malen’s services ensues between Arsenal and Chelsea, the defending champions will feel like they have the upper hand for the Dutch international’s purchase over their arch rivals.
Chelsea already have Joao Pedro in attack and the Brazilian has been terrific at the start of the season, giving Xabi Alonso no reason to seek another number nine. As such, a new addition could only be made to improve squad depth.
On the other hand, Arsenal have used Kai Havertz as their number nine with Viktor Gyokeres not a key fixture in Mikel Arteta’s plans. After Gabriel Jesus’ sale to Barcelona, they may view a natural central forward’s signing favourably in January.
Donyell Malen’s sharp finishing, intelligent movement in the box and the ability to pick the ball up deep and make direct runs to have a shot at goal would help Mikel Arteta’s men on the transition, and could see him play more regularly than at Chelsea.
Valued by AS Roma at only £56 million, Malen’s asking price reads reasonably and personal terms may also not be a big issue.
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