Aston Villa Targets Malen and Franca

Aston Villa is actively pursuing two key players to bolster their squad, targeting Wesley Franca from Flamengo and Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund. Villa's initial €15 million bid for the 21-year-old right-back Franca was rejected by Flamengo, but they may return with an improved offer, recognizing his potential to enhance their defense and attack. Meanwhile, they also made a €16 million offer for Malen, which Dortmund turned down, although the Dutch forward is considered a top target for Villa's January transfer window. Dortmund values Malen at £25 million and is reportedly open to negotiations, given his limited playing time this season. Malen's versatility across the front line could provide Villa with needed depth and quality, especially as they aim to secure European qualification. Villa's interest in these players reflects their ambition to strengthen their squad under Unai Emery as they navigate both domestic and European competitions.