PSV manager Ruud van Nistelrooy admits he would love to keep Everton loanee Jarrad Branthwaite at the Eredivisie club, but understands the complications in doing so.
Branthwaite, 20, has earned rave reviews for his displays in the Netherlands and has totted-up 33 games for PSV in all competitions. In that time, the centre-back has contributed four goals and one assist while helping to keep 11 clean sheets alongside his defensive teammates.
His career at Everton has, meanwhile, yet to ignite following his switch from Carlisle United in 2020 as reports suggest it could take around £15m for PSV to secure his signature when the market reopens. PSV have no obligation to purchase Branthwaite, while such an outlay could prove 'difficult' for them.
READ MORE: Sean Dyche makes tactics claim after stunning victory against Brighton
READ MORE: Everton player ratings vs Brighton as Dwight McNeil earns perfect score
It is not the first time van Nistelrooy has been pressed on signing Branthwaite. Back in February, he outlined his wish to snap-up the centre-back on a permanent basis - while it has also been reported that Branthwaite would 'definitely consider' a move to the club.
As quoted by the PSV Fans outlet, van Nistelrooy has shared a fresh update. Speaking about Wolves loanee Fabio Silva, initially, the former Manchester United frontman said: "We want to keep our best players and we will see if anything is possible. We know he [Silva] is under contract and what the price tag might be.
"That also applies to Jarrad Branthwaite. If we want to attract them, it will probably be very difficult for us.
"Yet it is now also a pleasure to work with them and to see how they take steps in their career."
Branthwaite, who initially progressed through the Carlisle academy and had a loan spell at Blackburn Rovers earlier in his career, signed for Everton midway through the 2019/2020 season. He has played 13 times for The Toffees and remains under contract until 2025.
READ NEXT:
Watch stunning scenes in Everton away end during 5-1 win over Brighton
Sean Dyche warning as Dwight McNeil and Abdoulaye Doucoure spirit clear
Jordan Pickford praises Everton team-mates before firing them blunt warning
Sky Sports to broadcast VAR review concerning Everton and Liverpool FC
Everton's remaining Premier League fixtures compared to relegation rivals