Personal terms agreed - Newcastle United plot £20m hijack for Aston Villa target

Newcastle United could sensationally snatch Donyell Malen from under Aston Villa’s noses this month.

Capable of playing anywhere across the frontline but predominantly a striker, the Dutchman is up for grabs given his precarious contract situation. Malen’s current deal has 18 months left to run and Borussia Dortmund have reportedly placed a €30million price tag around his neck.

A respectable 30 Bundesliga goals in fewer than 100 games has made Malen a handy player on the continent. His versatility would also appeal to the Magpies, with Eddie Howe short of options up front and on the right flank.

Alexander Isak has borne the burden of Newcastle’s No.9 options this season due to Callum Wilson’s continued injury woes. While he is being crowned by many as the Premier League’s best striker ahead of Manchester City ace Erling Haaland, niggling fitness concerns places a reliable backup near the top of United’s priorities.

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German reports claim Malen has agreed personal terms with Villa - a European rival - but Newcastle may hijack the deal. The transfer fee remains an area for negotiation, however, with the Midlands club valuing the 25-year-old closer to £20million.

Dortmund manager Nuri Sahin has admitted he is unsure where the forward’s future lies. He said last week: "The situation is what it is. We have to wait and see if anything happens. He's training well and I also know that he'll be there on Friday. Donny (Malen) will be part of the squad and is also a candidate for the starting eleven."