Joey Veerman’s near-move to Brentford briefly unsettled him in the summer — but only briefly. The PSV Eindhoven midfielder is now enjoying one of the best seasons of his career, and according to his father, Henk Veerman, any disappointment over the failed Premier League switch “didn’t last long at all.”
Speaking to De Telegraaf, relayed by Voetbal Zone, Henk outlined how the late-window drama unfolded behind the scenes. Brentford made a strong push at the end of August, tabling multiple bids and attempting to convince PSV to sell right up to deadline day. But the Dutch side held firm, openly stating they could not afford to lose Veerman that late in the window.
Reports at the time suggested Veerman was disappointed. He had been open to joining Brentford and testing himself in the Premier League. Yet, as the season has unfolded, the move collapsing has become a blessing in disguise.
PSV are top of the Eredivisie, dismantled Liverpool 4–1 in the Champions League in midweek, and Veerman has been central to their rise. His father insists the midfielder has long moved on — and is now operating at his “old, best level.”
Veerman back to his best after Brentford saga
Henk Veerman offered a candid glimpse into his son’s mindset after the window closed.
“Joey wasn’t bothered for long by the transfer to Brentford falling through. He’s having a fantastic season, and you can clearly see how happy he is at PSV.” — Henk Veerman, via *De Telegraaf*
Rather than letting frustration linger, Joey returned to PSV’s midfield and immediately elevated his performances. He has been one of the league’s most influential players, combining creativity, aggression, and leadership — qualities Brentford clearly saw when they pushed for him.
Why PSV refused to sell
PSV were transparent in the summer: losing Veerman that late in August would have destabilised their midfield structure. Peter Bosz views him as a core part of the team’s possession rhythm and final-third construction. Although some in England felt PSV might soften, other indications at the time made it clear they were unwilling to entertain negotiations.
Now, with PSV flying and Veerman in standout form, the refusal looks entirely justified.
Stats Snapshot: Joey Veerman 2025/26 (PSV Eindhoven)
| Stat (2025/26) | Joey Veerman |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Minutes Played | 1,515 |
| Big Chances Created | 11 |
| Key Passes per 90 | 3.1 |
| Balls Recovered per Game | 4.3 |
| Tackles per Game | 2.1 |
| Total Duels Won | 4.1 (54%) |
source: sofascore match data – 1 December 2025
These numbers reflect a midfielder operating at his peak. From my experience evaluating Eredivisie playmakers, Veerman’s blend of vision, tempo control and defensive work-rate is rare. His chance-creation metrics are elite, and his defensive activity shows a growing maturity.
National team frustration
Despite his form, Veerman has not been called up to the Dutch national team this season, something that frustrates his father — and increasingly Dutch media.
“I’m surprised he hasn’t been called up… there’s always a different reason given. Joey is certainly no less than the midfielders who are called up.” — Henk Veerman
Although some analysts argue the Oranje midfield is fiercely competitive, other indications point to tactical preferences rather than form dictating Ronald Koeman’s decisions. If Veerman continues at this level, the pressure to reintroduce him will grow.
Why Veerman’s season may reshape his future
In our view, Veerman’s form has fully reset the perception around his long-term trajectory. Because he is now performing at Champions League level against elite opposition, Brentford may not be the calibre of club knocking on PSV’s door next time. Although some reports suggest he still dreams of the Premier League, other indications imply he will only leave for a top-eight club in England or a Champions League side abroad.
It’s worth questioning whether PSV may already be planning for a substantial summer sale. With a contract until 2028 and elite numbers, Veerman’s market value will not remain static.
Why the Brentford failure may have helped him
One angle Dutch coverage hasn’t emphasised is the psychological impact of the failed transfer. Players who stay after late-window disappointment often slump — but Veerman did the opposite. Remaining at PSV allowed him to maintain rhythm, play European football, and compete for silverware. That environment has amplified his strengths and sharpened his consistency. For a creative midfielder, those factors can be transformational.
Key Insights
- Joey Veerman “wasn’t bothered for long” after Brentford move collapsed.
- PSV rejected multiple offers late in the window and refused to sell.
- The midfielder is having a standout season: 18 games, 5 goals, 7 assists.
- His father says he is “happy at PSV” and deserves a Dutch call-up.
- Veerman’s form may attract bigger Premier League clubs next year.
What’s Next
With PSV top of the Eredivisie and already delivering in Europe, Veerman’s stock is only rising. Expect renewed transfer interest — but likely from clubs higher up the food chain than Brentford.
👉 PSV fans — should the club cash in next summer, or is Veerman too important to lose?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 29 Nov 2025 16:53
Actually he started slow after the transfer didn’t happen, but his stats are great and he picked himself up. Let’s see if he gets his transfer wishes in January - I do still think that Brentford suits him perfectly.
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