Newcastle United are considering their options in a difficult transfer market.
The Magpies are looking good for a European spot next season thanks to their magnificent run of form. It’s seven wins in a row for Eddie Howe’s side who now sit a point off the top four and are just 90 minutes away from a second Carabao Cup final in three seasons.
Things are definitely on the up on Tyneside, but keeping that momentum is incredibly important. One way to keep it up would be to make signings. Howe wants to improve three areas of the squad but it could still be difficult without sales.
Sporting director Paul Mitchell is keen to recruit from abroad with the thought being that there will be some gems available with much cheaper asking prices.
One man also linked with a move to the North East is Borussia Dortmund star Donyell Malen who looked poised for a move away from Germany in favour of a return to England. Newcastle have been offered the chance to sign Malen in January, but getting it over the line could be difficult due to PSR.
Abdukodir Khusanov and Stefanos Tzimas have been linked but the Magpies don’t look like they’ll land them in January.
Donyell Malen’s excitement amid Newcastle links
Borussia Dortmund star Donyell Malen hasn’t hit the ground running so far this season – the Dutchman has only scored five goals in 20 games, but it looks like the Bundesliga side are now preparing for his departure.
The 25-year-old would be available for around £25m. However, Aston Villa have also been linked with the forward who reportedly made an improved offer to Dortmund after their initial bid was knocked back.
According to Birmingham World, Malen is thought to be excited about the prospect of returning to the Premier League and thrilled at the thought of an improved salary.
It will be a long-awaited return to England for the 25-year-old who also also has experience playing in England, before signing for PSV in 2017, Malen spent time in Arsenal’s youth setup between 2015 and 2017.
Malen was part of Dortmund’s squad that reached the Champions League final last season. He came off the bench as the German side lost 2-0 at Wembley Stadium. BILD has also reported that Newcastle are monitoring the Dutchman, but he wouldn’t be the first choice on Tyneside given Alexander Isak’s form.
Malen has experience at Newcastle
As a result of Newcastle’s Champions League qualification, Malen has had the opportunity to experience life on Tyneside, albeit for a couple of days.
Malen started in Newcastle’s defeat to Dortmund in October 2023. In his appearance, he experienced St James’ Park at its best, even if Newcastle lost.
Malen was awarded the Player of the Match award for his efforts in the game on Tyneside, he kept Kieran Trippier busy before being taken off in the 78th minute.
Malen can play on either wing or as a striker, his versatility is a trait Howe likes his players to have – at a glance, he looks to tick all the boxes for what Newcastle need to continue their push up the table.
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