Everton weigh January exit for Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne

Everton are assessing the possibility of signing Kevin De Bruyne in the January transfer window, after the Belgian midfielder has struggled to settle at Serie A side Napoli and is open to leaving.

The Toffees, who have been linked with a return to England's Premier League, are said to be evaluating whether a loan or permanent deal would be feasible.

Kevin de Bruyne has never truly settled at Serie A side Napoli and has been described as a problem for manager Max Allegri.

He also ignored Allegri’s instructions in a Champions League match against Villarreal, which was poorly received in Italy.

Everton's January pursuit

Everton are interested in a Premier League return for the Belgian midfielder.

MondoNapoli report that the Toffees are weighing a move less than two years after his transfer to Naples.

They are evaluating whether a January loan or permanent deal would be possible.

Il Mattino say De Bruyne has been largely silent about his situation.

Napoli have confirmed they will not extend his contract despite holding an option.

The player is aware of this and has reportedly had squabbles with several Napoli teammates in recent weeks.

PSV's competing bid

PSV are pursuing De Bruyne and describe the potential transfer as “astronomical”.

The Eindhoven club are open to buying the 35‑year‑old this winter.

PSV see him as a player who could further strengthen their attack.

No definitive agreement has been reached yet, but the club hope a deal can be concluded.

PSV officials are already in contact with the Belgian.

Journalist Jeroen Kapteijns notes De Bruyne has a good relationship with PSV masseur Eddy Pepels, who works with him in the Belgian national team.

He also owns a house near Hasselt, about an hour’s drive from PSV’s training centre, and his wife’s family roots are in Belgian Limburg.

PSV are examining the possibility of securing De Bruyne during the winter break and have already made contact, according to multiple sources.

The midfielder appears generally favourable to a move to Eindhoven, partly to be closer to home, and is attracted by the Dutch side’s style of play.

Several other clubs are also interested, and Napoli’s asking price could become a stumbling block.

PSV remain determined to strengthen their squad in the January window and say the negotiations have been progressing positively for some time.