PSV Eindhoven remain hopeful of bringing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite back to the Philips Stadium this summer.
However, the ECHO understands that despite PSV remaining interested in signing the centre-back permanently, a deal between the Eredivisie club and Everton appears unlikely as things stand.
The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at PSV and excelled, playing 36 times in all competitions and leaving with silverware. Branthwaite arrived in the Netherlands having made 13 first-team appearances for the Blues, scoring once.
Branthwaite, who is under contract at Everton until 2025, would have no hesitation in returning to Eindhoven on a permanent basis this summer, but, as things stand, he looks set to return to Merseyside once he finishes representing England in the European under-21 championship in Georgia and Romania.
READ MORE: Mehdi Taremi sends blunt transfer message to Everton after FC Porto 'offer'
ROYAL BLUE: What happens in the next six weeks could define Everton's season
Manchester United are unlikely to let Tom Heaton leave Old Trafford this summer. The former Burnley goalkeeper has been linked with a reunion with Sean Dyche at Everton.
However, the ECHO understands that United are, as things stand, unlikely to sanction any deal involving the 37-year-old given the uncertainty over David de Gea’s future and Dean Henderson’s current injury. The Old Trafford club also recently activated an option they had to extend Heaton’s contract by another year.
Fleetwood Town have also announced the signing of Harry Wright after he left Everton following the end of his contract. The Blues confirmed last month that the full-back would leave the club once his deal expired.
The Cods say they beat off a host of EFL clubs for the 18-year-old’s signature. Wright, who has signed a one-year deal at Highbury, will join up with Matthew Lawlor’s Development Squad after featuring on 34 occasions for the Blues during his two-year scholarship.
