**Liverpool are thought to be one of the clubs closely monitoring Burnley centre-back Maxime Esteve, with the Clarets resigned to losing him this summer.**
Ibrahima Konate’s departure has suddenly affected the Reds’ central defensive options heading into next season, with a proven player now needed.
Virgil van Dijk turns 35 years of age this summer, while Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet are young players learning their trade, so it is important to get an extra face in.
According to a new report from [_TEAMtalk_](https://www.teamtalk.com/liverpool/liverpool-consider-shock-burnley-raid-maxime-esteve-transfer-dael-fry-middlesbrough-exclusive), Liverpool are “among a three-strong Premier League contingent considering a move” for Burnley defender Esteve in the coming weeks and months, as Andoni Iraola eyes him up.
The Reds, Chelsea and Crystal Palace have all “closely monitored” the 23-year-old’s progress and they all “continue to hold strong admiration” for him ahead of a potential switch to Merseyside or London.
Burnley are “increasingly resigned to the prospect of losing” Esteve, following their relegation from the Premier League to the Championship in 2025/26.
**Is Maxime Esteve a good enough signing for Liverpool?**
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There may be some doubts from Liverpool supporters over a move for Esteve, considering he has just been relegated, but he is an impressive centre-back, with former Burnley manager [Scott Parker](https://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/real-commitment-burnley-boss-scott-parker-provides-glowing-verdict-on-maxime-esteves-new-deal-5256757) lauding him last summer:
_“I’m delighted that we’ve managed to seal that contract and fair play to the club owners that we’ve managed to do that, because i’s vitally important for us. Maxi’s not just an incredible football player, he’s an incredible person and showed real commitment by staying here as well, so I’m delighted to have him.”_
Esteve is still only 24, so there is plenty of time for the Frenchman to mature under Iraola, and his influence for Burnley in recent times cannot be ignored.
He was a mainstay of a Clarets defence that incredibly conceded just 16 goals in 46 Championship matches in 2024/25, showing what a formidable defender he can be, admittedly in the second tier.
If Esteve is considered a strong squad option for Liverpool, he could end up being a shrewd signing, but he likely isn’t at the level of Konate when it comes to starting most weeks for one of the biggest clubs in the world.