Everton's €6m salary hurdle fuels Premier League legend chase

Everton have contacted Napoli to explore a possible signing of 35‑year‑old Kevin De Bruyne, whose current salary at Napoli is estimated at €6 million per year. The Premier League club’s interest was reported by Calciomercato as an early‑stage enquiry ahead of the January transfer window.

Everton's initial approach

De Bruyne is in the final year of his Napoli contract and has featured in every match this season. Uncertainty over his future in Italy has prompted interest from other clubs, with Everton among those checking the landscape. Napoli head coach Massimiliano Allegri said, “I told Kevin that he can extend his career in the defensive midfield position for a few more years, but he doesn’t really like that idea himself.”

Allegri’s comments suggest a change could arrive before the end of the campaign rather than waiting for his contract to expire next summer. Everton’s reported attempt to understand the parameters of a deal indicates the club is probing the financial and sporting terms, though it remains unclear whether discussions have moved beyond an early enquiry. Any move would require a package that makes sense for Napoli, the player and Everton, given the €6 million salary benchmark.

Everton weigh January exit for Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne

PSV emerges as major challenger

Reports from the Netherlands indicate that PSV are in active dialogue with De Bruyne and believe their sporting project could appeal to the Belgian international. The Eredivisie side argues that the club’s environment, style of play and geographic convenience for his family could be decisive factors. PSV are said to be prepared to offer an “astronomical” salary in their context, even if matching Napoli’s €6 million wage proves challenging.

There is currently more advanced interest from PSV rather than Everton, but the Merseyside club’s name being mentioned is notable. If Everton view De Bruyne as a transformative short‑term addition, exploratory contact will not be enough; a defined proposal would be required quickly, presenting a major challenge for the club.

This Transfer News story has all the ingredients to spark supporter discussion, yet also carries warning signs of a deal that may never materialise. While De Bruyne remains a brilliant player from the Premier League era, his age of 35 and Napoli’s uncertainty about his long‑term role demand caution. Even if a transfer fee were manageable, the wages would be huge by Everton standards and could distort the squad if output does not match cost. Supporters have seen the danger of big names becoming a plan rather than part of a balanced team, and unless David Moyes envisions a realistic structure and specific role, the move feels more like a fantasy than a concrete acquisition.