PSV Eindhoven has been linked with a sensational return for former star Malik Tillman. A concrete transfer for the United States international from Bayer Leverkusen is viewed as extremely unlikely, however, according to a report by roundtable.io citing PSV watcher Rik Elfrink of the Eindhovens Dagblad. The German transfer window closes on Monday, adding time pressure.
PSV currently sits second in the Eredivisie with ten points from four matches and boasts a +10 goal difference. Peter Bosz's side trails leaders AZ Alkmaar by two points. The next major test is an away clash against arch-rivals Ajax on September 5th. The latest league standings can be followed on our standings page.
Why does Leverkusen want to sell Tillman?
Bayer Leverkusen has decided it wants to sell Malik Tillman. The German champions signed the player from PSV in 2025 for a fee just under €40 million. After 43 appearances, eight goals, and one assist, his time at Leverkusen appears to be over. The club prefers a permanent sale to avoid a substantial financial loss and has an asking price of €25-30 million in mind. A loan move is less attractive to Leverkusen.
What are the obstacles for a PSV return?
The biggest hurdle for a Tillman return to the Philips Stadion is financial. PSV holds positive feelings towards the player and maintains warm relations, but an investment of tens of millions does not fit the current budget. Rik Elfrink of the Eindhovens Dagblad stated, "there is currently little to suggest that such a move is realistic". The only conceivable path would be a loan deal under conditions acceptable to PSV, which is precisely what Leverkusen aims to avoid.
Has PSV re-signed former players before?
PSV does have a history of re-engaging former players. Names like Nicolas Isimat-Mirin, Marco van Ginkel, and Davy Pröpper have all returned to Eindhoven in the past. The presence of assistant coach Rob Maas, who has a prior relationship with Tillman from his first spell, could be a positive factor. These precedents make a return theoretically possible but are outweighed by the current financial reality.
What does this mean for the current PSV squad?
The Tillman rumors emerge as PSV enjoys a strong start to the season. The team has scored fifteen goals and conceded only five in four league games. The squad shows balance and attacking potency, which somewhat lessens the immediate need for an expensive acquisition like Tillman. The focus now is squarely on the upcoming clash against Ajax, a match that could further shape the table. The current squad lineup can be viewed on our squad page.
The coming days until the German transfer window closes on Monday are critical, but all signs point to Malik Tillman not appearing in PSV's red and white this season. The club is meanwhile preparing for the important fixture in Amsterdam on September 5th, a match you can find in our fixtures schedule.
