Everton’s young centre-half Jarrad Branthwaite, currently on loan at PSV Eindhoven has spoken about his time in the Eredivisie and seems to have ended recent speculation regarding a January transfer.
The 20-year-old joined the Dutch giants on a season-long loan back in July, but was at the centre of recent speculation regarding the contract being cut short in next month’s transfer window, with rumours that a deal with Italian side AS Roma was in negotiations.
Branthwaite has made just 12 appearances in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side so far this season, however the Carlisle-born defender has insisted that he his happy in Eindhoven and enjoys the competition at the Philips Stadium.
The Everton centre-back said, “This is just a very nice club, PSV. There are many committed people who want to form a family club together. I ended up in a pleasant team.
“This is a beautiful environment for me in all respects and, moreover, this competition is a good stage for further growth as a footballer. I am very satisfied here.”
The reassuring statement is welcome from a player who could have a big future at Everton, provided that his development is managed in the right way. The youngster recently signed a contract extension with the Blues, keeping him at Goodison Park until 2025 and there are high hopes that he could be a star of the future for the club.
Indeed, Branthwaite has already made 13 first team appearances for the Toffees, scoring one goal in a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge in December 2021. After a loan spell at Ewood Park for the second half of the 2021/22 season, Branthwaite’s move to the Netherlands affords him the opportunity to develop in one of Europe’s top leagues, and could be an invaluable experience if he is to fulfil his obvious potential