Villa enter transfer talks to sign ex-Arsenal youngster ‘ranked higher than Saka’| All Football

Aston Villa are eyeing a January deal for Donyell Malen – who was once likely to be better than Bukayo Saka.

Villa have held talks about possibly bringing him in during the January transfer window. A package worth £25 million is being discussed with the German outfit as Unai Emery tries to bring in a new winger, which is a priority this month for the Champions League outfit, according to the Telegraph.

Malen has fallen down the pecking order in the Bundesliga and Dortmund are open to selling him. The 25-year-old, once at PSV, previously had two years at Arsenal’s academy, but his time at the club never crossed paths with Emery. Last season, Malen scored 15 times for the German outfit.

Villa remain in contention for the European places but have not soared at the pace they did last season. Jhon Duran has emerged as their main goal threat with Ollie Watkins having to accept time on the bench. Malen could again add more firepower to her attack.

The Dortmund man was previously coached by Thierry Henry when the Arsenal icon was overseeing the club’s academy. Malen was among those tipped to go further, alongside the likes of Reiss Nelson, with Bukayo Saka not seen at the same level.

Henry once told BBC Sport: “At the time I was in the academy (training) people were talking a lot about Chris Willock, Reiss Nelson, Donyell Malen and Bukayo was just… yes, he’s good but not was talking about the academy. That’s why I have mad respect for Buakyo and I have a soft spot for him and my favorite player.”

Villa are considering other additions alongside Malen but see Kamara’s future as another top priority to address. The Frenchman has been crucial since his return from a knee injury and Villa want to hold contract talks in the near future, despite having more than two years left on his deal.

Villa have received a number of offers for winger Jaden Philogene but have made it clear that he is not for sale. Philogene is expected to leave this month but Villa will only entertain loan offers for the 22-year-old, who previously had an impressive season in the Championship at Hull City.

They will also look to loan striker Louie Barry over the next few weeks after recalling him from Stockport County, where he excelled. Barry has interest from a number of Championship clubs ready to allow a temporary exit.