Dutch star aiming to aid Roma's European bid after January arrival

The Serie A transfer market was a pretty busy one in last month's winter window, with a flurry of activity up and down Italy's top flight. 

Among the most notable deals, however, was Donyell Malen's move to Roma from Aston Villa.

The Dutchman had only arrived at Villa Park last January, but after becoming frustrated with first-team opportunities in Birmingham, he decided to swap the Premier League for Serie A in a bid to make sure he's on course for a place in the Netherlands World Cup squad this summer. 

His impact in Rome has been immediate - much to the detriment of Villa, who have lacked firepower since he's depature - with Malen scoring on his debut for the club in the win over Torino and instantly endearing himself to the fans. 

Speaking exclusively to DAZN upon his arrival in the Italian capital, the 27-year-old shared his delight at finding a new home in Rome. 

He said, "I've been watching a lot of games this year and even before, and I was always interested in the Serie A

"So I'm very happy to be here and playing in the league." 

That happiness has been evident on the field. After his debut goal, his performances continued to impress, and he was the star of the show in Monday's victory over in-form Cagliari as he netted both goals in the 2-0 win. 

His arrival has given Roma a new option in attack, boosting the frontline that already boasts Paulo Dybala and Evan Ferguson, but Malen explains what he can offer when he's deployed in the centre of a front three. 

"I prefer to play in the middle," Malen outlines. 

"I think as a striker, I'm the most dangerous in front of the goal. I can create and score goals for my team and I like to play there."

Monday's win leaves Roma in fifth place in Serie A, but level on points with Juve, who currently occupy the final Champions League spot. They can further state their claim for a top four place this weekend as they visit third-place Napoli, where a victory would draw them level with the reigning champions. 

Champions League football has always been the aim for boss Gian Piero Gasperini since he arrived last summer, and Malen admits the former Atalanta coach was a big reason why he's signed for the club. 

Adding, "He's very important for this club.Getty

"I think he's done good things in the past with other clubs and always been good football in his teams, and with the strikers also. So I'm looking forward to working with him." 

You can catch Roma's visit to Napoli on Sunday live on DAZN as well as every Serie A game this season. 

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