Nov 13, 2026 4:50 PM

Dutch analysts question if the aging Belgian playmaker fits Eindhoven’s vision, weighing his massive salary and physical decline against the success of other veteran signings.

PSV's reported interest in Kevin De Bruyne has sparked debate in the Netherlands, but Johan Derksen and René van der Gijp remain unconvinced that signing the Belgian midfielder would be the right move for the Eredivisie leaders.

The possibility of De Bruyne leaving Napoli for Eindhoven has attracted considerable attention in recent days. PSV are reportedly keen to bring the 35-year-old to the club, but the discussion on Dutch television programme Vandaag Inside highlighted some reservations about the potential deal.

Presenter Wilfred Genee raised the subject during Thursday evening's broadcast, asking whether PSV really needed to sign an older player.

“Does PSV have to sign an old player?” Genee asked.

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Van der Gijp was quick to give his response: “No, come on.”

Derksen acknowledged De Bruyne's ability but appeared to share concerns about the timing of such a signing.

“It's certainly a special player,” he said.

Van der Gijp then questioned whether the midfielder could still reproduce the physical level associated with his best years at Manchester City.

“Sure, but he threw his strength around with that Manchester City,” he added, as quoted by PSV Inside.

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Perisic Example And De Bruyne's Salary

The discussion also turned to Ivan Perisic, who joined PSV at the age of 35 and has made a positive impression in Eindhoven.

Derksen pointed to the Croatian's performances, remarking: “That other guy’s doing well, huh? From the Eastern Bloc.”

Perisic's impact offers an example of how an experienced player can still make a valuable contribution at PSV. However, the panel's comments suggested that De Bruyne's situation would need to be assessed on its own merits.

Sports marketer Chris Woerts also joined the debate, arguing that the Belgian still has enough left to offer despite his age.

“De Bruyne is 35, he can still keep going at PSV, you know. He earns 11.5 million at Napoli,” Woerts said.

That reported salary could be a significant consideration if PSV pursue a deal. Bringing De Bruyne to Eindhoven would require the club to weigh up the financial commitment alongside the player's expected contribution.

PSV Move Remains Uncertain

De Bruyne's quality is not in question, but the debate on Vandaag Inside reflects the different considerations surrounding a potential transfer. His experience and technical ability could make him a major addition, while his age and reported earnings raise questions about the overall value of the deal.

For now, PSV's interest has generated plenty of discussion, but there is no indication that a transfer is close. Any move would depend on the financial terms and the decisions of the player and Napoli.

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