After silencing critics with a stunning debut goal against Ajax, the versatile defender proves exactly why Eindhoven officials spent months chasing his signature from RB Leipzig.
Earnest Stewart believes Lutsharel Geertruida’s arrival has already shown why PSV were so determined to bring the Netherlands international to Eindhoven.
The PSV technical director faced criticism during much of the summer transfer window, with the club appearing to take a more measured approach than rivals Ajax. However, the pace increased in the closing stages of the window, with PSV adding several players, including Geertruida on loan from RB Leipzig.
The defender immediately made an impact. Making his starting debut for Peter Bosz’s side against Ajax, Geertruida scored a spectacular goal as PSV secured a 3-1 victory in Amsterdam.
Bosz had already praised the defender’s contribution, and Stewart is equally pleased with the qualities Geertruida brings to the squad.
Stewart Highlights Geertruida’s Versatility
Speaking on Goedemorgen Eredivisie on ESPN, Stewart pointed to the significance of Geertruida contributing so quickly after completing his move.
"It should be clear that it is really nice when the players who come form a certain value within the team. In this case, that is especially beautiful in a match like this," the PSV technical director said, as quoted by PSV Inside.
Stewart also explained why Geertruida fits naturally into Bosz’s possession-based approach.
"We often focus on ball possession, which Geertruida can do like no other. He is not only good with the ball, but also a very good defender. That is an ideal combination," Stewart continued.
The transfer took considerable patience to complete. Geertruida’s move was discussed well before the deal was eventually finalised, while Leipzig initially appeared reluctant to commit to a loan agreement.
PSV Remained Confident Despite Feyenoord Interest
Stewart dismissed suggestions that he had been worried Geertruida might ultimately choose Feyenoord.
"Was I afraid he would go to Feyenoord? No. Not at all, actually. The talks we had with him already date back to before the World Cup. Back then, it was already clear that he wanted to make the move."
The main obstacle, according to Stewart, was Leipzig’s position on the structure of the deal.
"The story with Leipzig was very different. At first they were open to a loan, but later they didn’t want to back down from that until the very last moment. We had patience, because we were always convinced that he would play for PSV," he said.
Stewart Confirms Other Transfer Targets
Stewart also provided further insight into PSV’s recruitment plans for the summer.
As relayed by PSV Watcher Rik Elfrink of Eindhovens Dagblad, Georginio Wijnaldum, 35, has now left the free-agent market after agreeing to spend a year at Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, with an option for a further season. As a result, Al-Ittihad did not sign Esmir Bajraktarević.
Stewart also confirmed that PSV had considered several other midfield options. On Goedemorgen Eredivisie, he reiterated that Azzedine Ounahi and Malik Tillman were on the club’s list. Tillman ultimately proved unattainable, while PSV decided not to pursue Ounahi further.
Wolves defender Ladislav Krejčí was another player who had been included on PSV’s shortlist.
For now, however, Geertruida’s rapid impact has given Bosz and Stewart another option capable of contributing both in possession and defensively, with his first start against Ajax providing an immediate return on the club’s patience.
