New bid lodged as Aston Villa and Newcastle United tussle for €30m marquee signing

Villa are yet to strike an agreement with Dortmund for Malen but talks remain ongoing to try and find a compromise.

It’s understood personal terms haven’t been an issue with Malen excited by the prospect of returning to the Premier League six years on from his Arsenal departure. The Dutchman is also thrilled by the prospect of an improved annual salary.

Villa made their first move for Malen last week but their bid of around €18 million (£14.9m) was rejected by Dortmund who are holding out for closer to €30 million (£25.1m). That remains the case with BVB eager to secure as high a transfer fee as possible to let their speedy winger depart.

Birmingham World understands Unai Emery has been determined to land a new, versatile attacker for several months - as well as a right-sided defender. Malen is at the top of the winger shortlist this month but there are other unnamed candidates if a deal cannot be struck.

Jaden Philogene’s imminent departure to Ipswich Town - for around £23 million including add-ons - has helped Villa’s pursuit of Malen as the cash injection will prevent PSR concerns from cropping up again, just like in the summer. Reports in Turkey suggest Diego Carlos could depart, too, with Fenerbahce leading the race.

Newcastle United tempted by Donyell Malen swoop

Villa may not be alone in their mission to sign Malen, however, with Newcastle United emerging as contenders. German publication BILD reports the Magpies are monitoring the 41-time Dutch international’s situation closely with an approach of their own being considered. It’s worth noting, however, that Malen is not Newcastle’s first choice in the position.

The 25-year-old attacker has scored 39 goals in 131 games in all competitions for Dortmund, three of which have come this campaign. Malen helped BVB reach the Champions League final last year - and he appeared in that crunch clash off the bench - but they were beaten in the final by Real Madrid at Wembley Stadium.

Depth in wide areas is pivotal for Emery’s plans at Villa, especially as he wants the club to be competitive in an array of competitions. Finishing in the Premier League top four is the priority while advancing far in the Champions League is highly desirable. Villa were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Crystal Palace in the last 16 and their FA Cup campaign gets underway against West Ham.

Dortmund manager confirms Donyell Malen transfer situation

Dortmund boss Nuri Sahin hasn’t shied away from the ongoing Malen transfer saga, admitting the winger could depart Signal Iduna Park. Sahin won’t let the negotiations behind the scenes impact what’s happening on the pitch, however, with Malen very much in contention to play against Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga on Friday night.

"The situation is what it is. We have to wait and see if anything happens," said Şahin on Wednesday, who insists his attacker is focused on the job in hand. "He's training well and I also know that he'll be there on Friday. Donny will be part of the squad and is also a candidate for the starting eleven."