Everton and West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old French defender Maxime Esteve from EFL Championship club Burnley this summer.
According to a report by French outlet Foot Mercato, Maxime Esteve is the subject of interest from Everton. The Toffees are scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window and have set their sights on the Burnley defender. They have identified the French defensive prospect as their priority target.
In addition, the Burnley centre-back is a target for West Ham United. The Hammers are also keen on reinforcing their defensive unit in the summer transfer window and have set their sights on the Frenchman. They have already submitted enquiries to sign Esteve from the EFL Championship club in the coming months.
Maxime Esteve: A rock at the back for Burnley
Maxime Esteve has been among the brightest performers for Burnley since arriving from Montpellier. The Clarets initially signed the 22-year-old on loan in February 2024 as they looked to salvage their Premier League campaign. The youngster completed a permanent move to Turf Moor in the subsequent summer transfer window and has been a mainstay at the back this term.
The French defender has turned out over 50 times thus far for Burnley while chipping in with one goal. Meanwhile, the highly-rated centre-back’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs across Europe. Everton and West Ham United are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature heading into the summer transfer window.
Premier League return on the cards?
Everton’s interest in Maxime Esteve is understandable. The Toffees are scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding Jarrad Branthwaite’s long-term future. In addition, Michael Keane might leave the Merseyside club in the coming months. So, Esteve has emerged as the priority target for Everton.
As for West Ham United, Jean-Clair Todibo faces an uncertain future at the London Stadium heading into the summer transfer window. In addition, Konstantinos Mavropanos has blown hot and cold during his spell with the East London club. So, Esteve is a viable target for West Ham, with the East London outfit submitting an enquiry for him.
However, Everton and West Ham United face stiff competition from AC Milan for Esteve heading into the summer transfer window. So, it will be interesting to see what the future has in store for the youngster.
