Julian Brandt’s next career step remains uncertain following his exit from Borussia Dortmund (BVB). However, new developments suggest a possible reunion with one of his former teammates could soon be on the cards.
As per reports from Corriere dello Sport, Donyell Malen is playing a pivotal role in persuading the 30-year-old attacking midfielder to sign for AS Roma. The Italian publication referred to the two as “twins” from their shared time at Dortmund and revealed that the pair were jointly involved in 135 goals during their three and a half seasons together for BVB — comprising 73 goals and 62 assists.
Brandt, who hails from Bremen, is often praised as a “natural playmaker” with exceptional dribbling skills and remarkable energy on the pitch. Given his current contract situation, he is considered “one of the most intriguing options in the European transfer market.” Roma are reportedly eager to “reunite the two brothers.”
The same report claims that Roma initially explored the possibility of signing Brandt in March and received encouraging signals. Recently, Malen took matters into his own hands and contacted Brandt shortly before the Dutch national team left for the USA, Canada, and Mexico to check if his interest in joining the Giallorossi remained. According to the Italian daily, Brandt’s response was clear: “Of course yes.”
Nevertheless, Brandt is said to be in discussions with other teams as well, with Atlético Madrid maintaining long-standing interest. The experienced BVB midfielder is reportedly seeking a net annual salary of €4 million (approximately €8 million gross in Germany).
Among all the factors influencing Brandt’s potential move to Roma, Donyell Malen could be the most decisive one.
Malen himself has demonstrated how a switch to Roma can revitalise a player’s career. After transferring to Aston Villa in January 2025 for €25 million, the Dutch forward struggled to meet expectations. However, a loan move to Roma in the winter of 2026 transformed his fortunes. Thriving as a centre-forward, he netted 14 goals in 18 Serie A appearances, quickly becoming a fan favourite and helping Roma qualify for the Champions League for the first time in eight years.
Italian media outlets were full of praise for his performances. Corriere dello Sport wrote, “Everyone is mad about Malen,” while Gazzetta dello Sport described him as “The Malen factor – the striker Roma have been missing.”
Julian Brandt: Decision on his next club expected later in the summer
Although his “twin” has strongly endorsed a move to Rome, Brandt appears in no rush to finalise his decision. Speaking to Sky shortly before the end of the season, he said, “I’m very organised about it. In some Doppelpass sessions, you’d put two euros in a piggy bank for that. But I’m taking things step by step. It won’t drag on until August, I can tell you that.”
Remaining in the Bundesliga is still a realistic possibility. Brandt explained, “I wouldn’t rule anything out in principle. But there are certain things I prefer and others I’m less keen on right now. I have one or two ideas, but one step at a time.” Previous rumours had linked him with a return to SV Werder Bremen.
A comeback to Bayer Leverkusen was also discussed after managing director Fernando Carro hinted at a potential reunion when Brandt’s Dortmund departure was announced. However, sporting director Simon Rolfes quickly dismissed the idea, stating, “I’m sceptical about bringing players back. We already have an excellent player in that position in Ibo Maza, who will develop brilliantly over the next few years. That’s why Julian won’t be on our radar.”
Brandt is set to officially leave Borussia Dortmund on 30 June after seven seasons, during which he scored 57 goals and provided 70 assists in 307 competitive appearances. Despite numerous highlights, he managed to win just one major title with the Black and Yellows — the 2021 DFB Cup. He narrowly missed out on additional silverware during the 2024 Champions League final against Real Madrid and the dramatic final day of the 2022/23 Bundesliga season.
