The Dutch forward joins on loan with an option to buy and is already pushing for his debut in Turin under Gasperini
AS Roma have officially announced the signing of Donyell Malen, completing a deal that adds pace, goals and international experience to Gian Piero Gasperini’s attack. The Dutch forward arrives on loan with an option to buy and has chosen the No. 14 shirt, signaling both confidence and ambition as he begins a new chapter in Serie A.
Malen is expected to be available immediately and could make his Roma debut as early as the away match in Turin, with the club keen to integrate him quickly into Gasperini’s system.
The club statement
Roma confirmed the move with an official announcement on their website, outlining Malen’s pedigree and career path:
“AS Roma are pleased to announce the arrival of Donyell Malen from Aston Villa. The deal is completed on loan with an option to buy.
The forward, born in 1999, has previously played for PSV Eindhoven, Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa, making 294 appearances and scoring 104 goals in all competitions.
A Netherlands international, Malen has earned 49 caps and scored 13 goals, including appearances at Euro 2021 and Euro 2024. At the latter tournament, he played a decisive role in the round of 16 against Romania, scoring twice in a 3–0 win.
He will wear the No. 14 shirt. Welcome to Roma, Donyell!”
Those numbers underline why Roma moved decisively: Malen brings a proven scoring record across multiple leagues and experience at the highest international level.
Malen: “I’ll give everything for the fans”
Speaking to the club’s official media, Malen did not hide his enthusiasm for the move.
“I feel really good, I’m very happy to be here,” he said. “The last few days were long, but I’m excited. In football, nothing matters more than passion. I play with passion, and I hope to build a strong bond with the fans and create something special together.”
The Dutchman explained what convinced him to choose Roma over other options:
“The passion of the supporters, the ambition of the ownership and the goals the club has set. Roma is a huge club, and I’m very happy to be here.”
Gasperini factor and tactical role
Malen also highlighted the importance of working under Gian Piero Gasperini, a coach renowned for getting the best out of attacking players.
“I think he’s very important for this club,” Malen said. “He’s done great things in the past, and his teams always play attractive football. His attackers always perform well, so I can’t wait to work with him.”
On the pitch, Malen was clear about where he feels most dangerous:
“I prefer playing centrally. As a pure striker I feel I can be more effective, create chances for the team and score goals.”
Why No. 14?
Even his shirt number comes with a sense of continuity.
“It was the best number available,” Malen explained. “I’ve worn No. 14 before and always felt comfortable with it.”
Immediate impact expected
Roma are counting on Malen’s versatility, speed and goal-scoring instincts to boost an attack that needed depth and unpredictability. With Serie A fixtures coming thick and fast, Gasperini is expected to test him quickly, possibly right away against Torino.
For Roma fans, the message is clear: this is not a long-term project signing, but a player ready to contribute now—with the potential to become a permanent piece of the club’s future.
