Malen's permanent move from Aston Villa was announced on Tuesday for €25 million, the fee structured as an obligation that was automatically activated when Roma secured Champions League qualification. His contract runs until June 2030.
"The Dutch forward has made 20 appearances and scored 15 goals since joining in the January transfer window," Roma's official statement read.
The Malen story is one of the transfer window's most striking vindications. Villa signed him from Borussia Dortmund in January 2025 for around £30 million, but he never established himself under Unai Emery and was moved on 12 months later when Roma offered a loan with a purchase clause tied to European qualification.
In Rome, under Gian Piero Gasperini, everything changed. Malen became the focal point of the attack, operating in a high-pressing system that suited his directness and movement — and he broke Mario Balotelli's long-standing record for the most Serie A goals scored by a January signing in a single season. He also earned a recall to the Netherlands squad for the World Cup.
His 15 goals in 20 appearances directly contributed to Roma finishing third in Serie A and qualifying for the Champions League for the first time since 2018-19.
Hermoso, 30, will remain at the Stadio Olimpico until the summer of 2027, with AS Roma exercising the option included in his original free-transfer agreement. The Spain international contributed four goals in 35 appearances and was a consistent performer in Gasperini's defence across a season in which Roma conceded only 38 Serie A goals.
The two decisions send a clear signal about the ambition of the project Gasperini is assembling for next season. Roma have already confirmed the permanent arrivals of midfielder Manu Koné from Manchester City and goalkeeper Mile Svilar on an extended deal.
They finished third in Serie A, five points behind second-placed Napoli. The Champions League brings a different level of scrutiny.
Gasperini has earned it before. He now has the squad to attempt it again.