PSV Eindhoven are pulling the plug on signing Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite permanently after being priced out of a deal, sources have told Football Insider.
The Dutch club have been impressed by the 20-year-old defender during his season-long loan and have explored a full-time deal.
However, Everton have quoted the Dutch giants with a price tag of between £5-£6 million, a fee that PSV are reluctant to pay despite Branthwaite’s impressive form.
PSV’s budget pales in comparison to clubs in the Premier League, so may have to look elsewhere if they are to reinforce their back-line.
Branthwaite has played an integral role since joining the Eindhoven club last summer (2022), making 35 appearances and scoring four times
He also helped his side as they lifted the Dutch Cup by beating Ajax 3-2 on penalties last month.
Although Everton’s Premier League survival still hangs in the balance, the Toffees are reluctant to see their young prospect leave the club.
The young centre-back has just been handed his first England Under-21s call-up – alongside ex-teammate Noni Madueke, and ex-Everton golden boy Anthony Gordon.
With his future unclear, Branthwaite could play his last-ever game for managerless PSV against AZ Alkmaar on Sunday (28 May) before returning to Merseyside.
The youngster has played just 13 times for Everton despite making his senior breakthrough four years ago on loan at Carlisle United.
Sean Dyche has had a tricky start to life as Everton manager since replacing Frank Lampard in January and is yet to find a settled back four – even bringing Yerry Mina in from the cold in recent weeks.
Everton face Bournemouth on the final day of this season (28 May) and can ensure Premier League survival by beating the south coast club at Goodison Park.
In other news, Everton may be set to sell their star forward.
