Liverpool joined by Euro giant in admiration of Dutch star striker
Liverpool are admirers of PSV attacker Donyell Malen but face competition from an Italian giant, a report claims.
Malen is one of the brightest prospects in the Eredivisie, having flourished since leaving Arsenal’s academy.
The Gunners let him join PSV in 2017 and he has not looked back. Malen made his debut before the end of his first season back in the Netherlands and has now scored 50 goals for them.
Still only 22, Malen has potential to improve even further, making him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.
Naturally, PSV will have to fend off interest from a number of top clubs. They have him under contract until 2024 but may have to sell him before then if a big offer comes in.
Now, a report has revealed the identities of two of his suitors. According to Calciomercato, Liverpool and AC Milan both like Malen.
Liverpool’s attack has not had the same cutting edge this season. Mohamed Salah is still among the goals, but the attacking unit’s overall output has decreased.
After 27 Premier League games this season, Liverpool have scored 47 goals. At the same stage last season, they had scored 64.
Liverpool have long had to deal with rumours of members of their star front three leaving. Salah, for example, continues to be linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
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The same goes for Sadio Mane, while Roberto Firmino’s place in the starting lineup came under threat from Diogo Jota earlier in the season and may do so again now the Portugal international has returned.
Even if Liverpool keep hold of their attackers, they may still look to replenish their frontline. They have already been linked with a number of high-profile targets.
Kylian Mbappe would be the dream, but on a more realistic level, Malen could be an option.
The striker’s value has risen significantly since Arsenal let him go for less than £1m. Especially with the length of time still on his contract, PSV would be able to command a high fee.
However, he is at an ideal age to invest in, so only time will tell if Liverpool or Milan firm up their interest.
Mane, Salah theory suggested
Meanwhile, a former Liverpool striker has proposed a “wild” theory about Mane and Salah after their loss to Chelsea on Thursday.
Michael Owen reacted to a key moment in the game that could have led to Liverpool scoring – which they ultimately failed to do.
Mane and Salah have often had to play down rumours of friction, but Owen now posed his own suggestion about one key factor affecting them.