Barcelona transfer news: Catalan giants 'given encouragement' in pursuit of 38-goal attacker

The 25-year-old has scored four times and registered one assist in 17 appearances for BVB during the 2024-25 campaign, while he has 38 goals and 20 assists in 128 matches in total for the German outfit since arriving from PSV Eindhoven in July 2021.

Malen has a contract with Dortmund until June 2026, but there is currently a host of speculation surrounding his future, with Sky Deutschland claiming that the forward will be allowed to leave his German club in January.

It is understood that BVB value the Netherlands international in the region of €25m (£20.7m), making him a low-cost option in the current market, and Barcelona are said to be keen on his services.

According to Fichajes, amid their ongoing financial concerns, Barcelona are looking to boost their attack, and Malen is viewed by the Catalan outfit as a player capable of making a difference to their side.

Barcelona 'eyeing move' for Dortmund attacker Malen

The report claims that Atletico Madrid are also keeping a close eye on the situation, while there has previously been suggestions of interest from the Premier League in the shape of Manchester United.

A January deal is said to be difficult due to Barcelona's financial situation, but Malen is believed to be willing to wait until the end of the season in order to secure a move to Hansi Flick's side.

Malen has made 30 career appearances in the Champions League for Dortmund and PSV Eindhoven, scoring six goals and registering one assist, while he has 29 goals and 16 assists in 91 Bundesliga outings.

The forward is a 41-time Netherlands international, meanwhile, representing his country at two European Championships, with the forward building up a strong CV at a relatively young age.

Where would Barcelona use Malen?

Malen's versatility is one of his biggest strengths, with the Dutchman capable of operating in a number of different forward positions, including through the middle, although his best football generally comes off the right.

Barcelona do lack depth in the wide positions, with Ansu Fati still having his injury problems, and there is major pressure on both Raphinha and Lamine Yamal to stay fit due to a lack of options in the final third.

As a result, a move for Malen would make a lot of sense, particularly if it is a low-cost deal, but it is much more likely to occur next summer rather than in January despite the attacker's alleged desire to switch clubs in the middle of the campaign.

Written by

Matt Law