Transfer deadline day always throws up stories of ‘what could have been’ – and one of those this summer involved Brentford and PSV Eindhoven’s Joey Veerman. Was he ‘the one that got away’?
The Dutch international has been speaking openly about his frustration after PSV blocked his move to West London, despite the Bees tabling a serious late bid believed to be worth between €25m and €35m.
Veerman didn’t hide his feelings when speaking to NOS:
“This train was coming along now, and I wanted to get on. PSV might have seen it that way, but they couldn’t find a replacement. It’s a real shame. It’s a decent amount; apparently, they don’t need it.”
PSV’s technical director Earnest Stewart insisted rejecting Brentford’s proposal was straightforward, pointing out that there wasn’t enough time to bring in a suitable replacement. He also suggested Veerman understood the call – although the midfielder’s own words tell a slightly different story.
Beesotted talked about the Veerman link in the Transfer Deadline Day podcast, listen now by clicking the link below.
The 25-year-old confirmed he told both Stewart and PSV general manager Marcel Brands exactly how he felt:
“I said I was disappointed. They knew I wanted to transfer and that an offer could come.”
Interestingly, Veerman also aimed a little frustration towards the Bees for their timing:
“If Brentford had come earlier, the deal would have been done. They waited too long. The clause in my contract expired two weeks before the deadline. I understand [PSV’s] position, and I can’t change the fact that they couldn’t find a suitable replacement.”
From our perspective, Veerman seemed to tick many boxes – technical, hard-working, and a player who clearly wanted to be part of the Brentford project. Missing out this time feels disappointing based on the player’s comments, but there may be a silver lining.
Brentford have a habit of returning for players they’ve identified as ‘Bees suitable.’ So don’t be surprised if Joey Veerman’s name pops up again in future windows.
Dave Lane
