Liverpool transfer target Donyell Malen could be offered to Manchester United by Borussia Dortmund as part of a “swap deal” for Jadon Sancho, according to journalist Christian Falk.

It was reported by Falk’s newspaper Bild earlier this week that the Reds, Arsenal and United could battle for the Dutchman’s signature. However, writing in his Daily Briefing column, Falk suggested a move to Old Trafford could be on the cards:

“[Dortmund] Sports director Sebastian Kehl is very happy with Sancho. That’s why he wants to talk to Manchester United in May. The goal: another loan. But there is also a plan B.

“Donyell Malen is currently playing in his best form since he joined Dortmund. Manchester United are interested in him. Dortmund would give him away. A swap deal would be possible. Good for Dortmund: Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC are also interested in the Dutchman.”

Do Liverpool need a player like Malen?

The Netherlands international has spent most of the season playing as a right-winger; a position that the Reds may need to strengthen soon if Mo Salah leaves for Saudi Arabia.

However, Malen is not left-footed so he wouldn’t be a like-for-like replacement if he did make the switch to Anfield. His goal record is also inferior to the Egyptian King’s, having scored 32 times in 106 appearances for Dortmund.

Dortmund have slapped a significant asking price on the forward

If Malen isn’t used in a swap deal, it is believed that the 25-year-old would be made available for around €60m (£51m). That’s a pretty substantial fee for a player who has never scored 20 league goals in his career.

While the Dutchman is clearly someone who has been admired by Liverpool’s recruitment team for quite some time, he doesn’t look like a player who has what it takes to perform at the very highest level.