Everton are reportedly looking to terminate Jarrad Branthwaite's loan deal at PSV Eindhoven. 

The Lowdown: Branthwaite's move to PSV

Back in July, the Toffees defender joined the Dutch club on a season-long loan deal.

Since then, the Englishman has made 11 senior appearances for PSV across all competitions but has only started four games.

But despite being only a few months into his season-long loan spell, it appears that the defender could be set to see his time in the Netherlands come to an early end.

The Latest: Everton to terminate Branthwaite loan

According to a recent report from Football Insider, Everton have spoken to PSV about terminating Branthwaite’s loan deal in January after having discussions behind the scenes.

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The report adds that no decision has yet been made and there is still a possibility that Branthwaite could stay on at PSV for the rest of the season, as the Dutch club have increasingly warmed to the centre-back following some early struggles.

The Verdict: An extra option for Lampard

Despite his lack of regular playing time in the Eredivisie, the 20-year-old has still been able to show what he's capable of on the pitch.

For example, in addition to having the highest passing accuracy percentage (89.6%) at the club, Branthwaite has also racked up the third-highest number of clearances (24) at PSV.

 

In terms of a potential early return to Everton, the fact that Frank Lampard already has the likes of Conor Coady, James Tarkowski, Ben Godfrey, Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Mason Holgate as his disposal makes it hard to see why he would want Branthwaite back in the mix, even if Mina leaves the club.

In our view, if the defender is likely to be getting more time on the pitch at PSV, Everton should keep him where he is and let him continue his development.