Valentijn Driessen has been impressed by Kodai Sano's rapid development at PSV but believes the Japanese midfielder needs more time in Eindhoven before considering a move to one of Europe's elite clubs.

Sano has quickly established himself as an important member of Peter Bosz's side since arriving at the Philips Stadion. His consistency has been particularly impressive, with the midfielder yet to miss a match and increasingly making his presence felt at both ends of the pitch.

His latest performance against Club Brugge, which he capped with a goal in PSV's 2-1 Champions League defeat, prompted further discussion about his potential future. Former professional Theo Janssen suggested that Sano could attract a major transfer offer as early as next summer.

However, Driessen is not convinced that an immediate departure would be the right move.

Speaking on the Kick-Off podcast by De Telegraaf, the journalist acknowledged the midfielder's progress but questioned whether he was ready to leave PSV after just one season.

"Is he quickly ready for a step up at PSV? Wouldn't know why," Driessen said.

He added that Sano had adapted exceptionally quickly to Dutch football and was already showing that he could compete at a high level. Nevertheless, Driessen believes it is important to assess his performances against stronger European opposition before drawing bigger conclusions.

"He's doing well, adapted very quickly, and at this level he can keep up, but this was against Club Brugge," he explained.

"The previous time it was against FC Porto, and the match before that against RB Leipzig. Just look at the results: those clubs score against the big boys in Europe and they're all sent packing as well."

While Driessen does not expect Sano to leave PSV after just one campaign, he has not ruled out the possibility of the midfielder eventually reaching the level required to play for clubs such as FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

However, the journalist stressed that further development would be necessary before such a move became realistic.

"Sano may ultimately be able to take a step up, but he will really still need to make progress in order to be able to compete at the level of, for example, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid," Driessen said.

He also suggested that Paris Saint-Germain would represent an even greater challenge for the Japanese midfielder.

The comments underline the distinction between Sano's impressive start at PSV and the demands of competing regularly for Europe's biggest clubs. His performances have certainly attracted attention, but Driessen believes another period of development in Eindhoven would be beneficial.

Theo Janssen has taken a more optimistic view of the midfielder's immediate prospects. Speaking after the Club Brugge match on Ziggo Sport, the former professional was full of praise for Sano's technical quality, energy and ability to adapt.

"He has adapted effortlessly to PSV's level. I'll tell you: he's going to surpass it. He's so good, so good. He's going to make another step," Janssen said, as quoted by PSV Inside.

He even suggested that a lucrative transfer after the current season would not surprise him if Sano maintains his present level.

For now, PSV will be keen to retain a player who has become increasingly influential in Bosz's midfield. Driessen recognises the potential for Sano to reach the highest level, but believes his next step should come after further progress in Eindhoven rather than an immediate move away.