EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS - DECEMBER 12: Donyell Malen of PSV during the UEFA Europa League match between PSV v Rosenborg BK at the Philips Stadium on December 12, 2019 in Eindhoven Netherlands (Photo by Photo Prestige/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Arsenal linked with a move for former youth graduate Donyell Malen
Le10Sport have claimed that Arsenal are interested in bringing former youth player Donyell Malen to the Emirates.
Malen was very impressive for the Gunners’ youth sides before he was surprisingly let go in 2017. PSV Eindhoven wasted no time in snapping him up.
The 21-year-old forward has flourished in his home country, having established himself as first choice last season.
In 2019/20, he already has 11 goals in just 14 Eredivisie games. His performances also earned him his first Netherlands senior call-up last year.
At Arsenal, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is being linked with a move away from the Emirates. The Gunners have struggled in the Premier League this season in spite of some improvements under Mikel Arteta.
The North Londoners’ Europa League elimination at the hands of Olympiakos also hasn’t helped quell rumors about their star striker. Inter Milan and Barcelona are sniffing around the 30-year-old.
Malen is capable of playing anywhere across a front 3, but his goalscoring record clearly highlights his preferred position. The youngster has come to be known for his electric pace, aerial strength and finishing.
His defensive work rate leaves a lot to be desired though, something that will be very important for Arteta.
Malen is expected to command a fee of around €56 million if clubs come knocking in the summer. Going by his numbers so far, he could be worth the investment.
He has, however, been out of commission since December after undergoing a knee surgery. PSV do not expect him to be back before the end of this season, and the severity of his injury could a be a stumbling block in any potential deal.
AC Milan were also briefly considering a move for him in January, but they ended up signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Italian giants could still return for him, with Ibrahimovic turning 39 later this year.
A move for Malen is bound to raise questions at the Emirates about why he was let go in the first place, but the Dutchman’s talent is there for all to see, and he’d be a good replacement for Aubameyang.
