According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Atletico Madrid is working on signing Donyell Malen from Aston Villa. Malen is reportedly the first choice for Atletico Madrid as a replacement for Giacomo Raspadori. Giacomo Raspadori is close to transferring to Atalanta Bergamo.

Sky Sport reports that Atletico Madrid has immediately started searching for a replacement for a departing Raspadori. According to the broadcaster, Donyell Malen is the very first name on the Spanish club's list, based on an indication from Simeone.

Atlético de Madrid has identified Aston Villa's 26-year-old Dutch forward Donyell Malen as a target to strengthen their attack this winter. According to other Italian media, Aston Villa has reached a tentative agreement with AS Roma for a loan with an option to buy set between €25 and €30 million, which is pending the player's personal agreement. Malen is currently a substitute at his English club, and reports in January 2026 state that Aston Villa are demanding approximately €35 million for a permanent transfer.