Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund will discuss a potential swap deal involving Jadon Sancho and Donyell Malen in a “meeting today ” (Fri 8th Dec), according to Bild reporter Christian Falk.

The journalist, who is usually reliable when it comes to German clubs, claims that Dortmund want Sancho or €30m (£26m) if they are to offload Malen:

There is a Meeting today at Dortmund for a Swap Deal Jadon Sancho (23) vs Donyell Malen (24): Dortmund demand from @ManUtd €30 Mio or Sancho for Malen @BILD_Sport

— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) December 8, 2023

Considering Sancho cost £73m, United would be making a massive loss if they accept a direct swap for Malen.

However, manager Erik ten Hag has already spoken out to say that the Red Devils will have limited funds in the transfer market due to Financial Fair Play restrictions so they may have trouble raising the €30m needed if they do decide to reject the player exchange.

Would Malen be a good signing for United?

It is fair to say that the Dutchman has struggled since moving to Dortmund for €30m (£26m) in the summer of 2021. In his two-and-a-half years in Germany, he has scored just 23 goals, which is considerably less prolific than he was during his time at PSV Eindhoven.

Interestingly enough, Malen has played in England before, having spent two years in Arsenal’s academy before he joined PSV in 2017 but he wasn’t given his senior debut by the Gunners.

Questions will be asked about ten Hag’s interest in recruiting another ex-Eredivisie player

It’s clear that United’s interest in Malen is based on ten Hag‘s recommendation. His Ajax side faced PSV on a number of occasions when the forward played in the Netherlands.

Considering how many former Eredivisie players have been recruited by the Red Devils since 2022, fans will be justified in asking questions about Malen’s suitability.