‘Paperwork signed’ as Dortmund close in on Liverpool target
Liverpool target Donyell Malen has signed initial paperwork ahead of his move to Borussia Dortmund, according to reports.
Malen featured for the Netherlands at Euro 2020 but could only help Frank de Boer’s men to reach the round of 16.
They were knocked out by the Czech Republic after goals from Patrik Schick and Tomas Holes in Hungary.
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Malen enjoyed more success at club level as he bagged 27 goals in 45 games for PSV last season.
That form helped PSV to finish second in the Dutch Eredivisie, behind rivals Ajax.
Malen has been touted for a Liverpool transfer in recent months but it looks like the Reds will have to pursue other targets.
Respected journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that Malen has penned the ‘first part of his paperwork’ for a move to Dortmund.
PSV will receive €30million (£25.6m) for his signature, which represents a major profit on the forward.
They took him to Holland for just £540k in August 2017 after he was deemed surplus to requirements in Arsenal’s U23 side.
Romano also confirmed Liverpool’s interest in the 22-year-old. Despite this, they have never made an official bid for him.
Malen was viewed as a potential replacement for either Mo Salah or Sadio Mane, should one of Jurgen Klopp’s men opt to leave for Spain.
Salah was asked about interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona last season.
He said: “I think Madrid and Barcelona are two top clubs.
“Who knows what will happen in the future, but right now I am focused on winning the Premier League and the Champions League with Liverpool again.”
Malen will instead look to replace Jadon Sancho at the Westfalenstadion.
Following years of rumours the England winger has secured a £73million move to Man Utd.
Malen will need to forge a strong partnership with striker Erling Haaland if Dortmund are to thrive again in 2021/22.
They are the reigning DFB-Pokal champions after beating RB Leipzig 4-1 in the final at the Olympiastadion.
Dortmund will also be looking to keep up with Bayern Munich, who won their ninth straight Bundesliga title last term.
