Burnley’s talented centre-back is attracting considerable attention from leading clubs throughout Europe and the Premier League.
The Clarets are currently chasing automatic Championship promotion back into the Premier League after relegation last year.
They have been after the likes of Sheffield United and Leeds United all season, with just two points separating the clubs.
Despite currently sitting in third, on 78 points, Scott Parker’s side have been a formidable defensive force this season, boasting an impressive 27 clean sheets in 38 matches.
They have even shattered the record for the most clean sheets in a single second-tier season. Yet, their extraordinary defensive achievement has one player at its core.
Photo by Athena Pictures/Getty Images
Photo by Athena Pictures/Getty Images
AC Milan, Everton and West Ham want Maxime Esteve
Maxime Esteve arrived at Turf Moor on loan from Montpellier last season, captivating fans and management alike, leading Burnley to secure his permanent transfer.
Since then, the 22-year-old has evolved into a linchpin of the Clarets’ defence, playing every match this season and making a substantial impact on their commendable defensive record.
His unwavering reliability and remarkable defensive skills have been vital to Burnley’s success, no wonder he’s attracting attention away from Turf Moor.
According to Alan Nixon’s Patreon, AC Milan have emerged as a frontrunner in the pursuit of Esteve, with their keen-eyed scouts reportedly attending two of Burnley’s matches, including their recent draw against West Brom.
The Serie A side is currently sitting 7th in the table, with hopes of European football, and bringing in the likes of Esteve could help further that dream for next season.
Yet, they find themselves up against fierce competition from Premier League rivals Everton and West Ham United, both of whom are closely tracking the defender’s evolving situation.
Everton manager David Moyes is eager to breathe new life into the Toffees this summer, and Esteve could well be his first addition.
Moyes is determined to fortify his squad as he aims to elevate Everton into the top half and potentially for European qualification next season, making this an enticing offer for one of the best players in the Championship, Esteve.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
For West Ham, the urgency for defensive reinforcements is palpable, especially given Graham Potter’s side have managed just six clean sheets in the Premier League this season.
Burnley’s best hope of keeping Esteve lies in their quest for promotion to the Premier League.
Even if they achieve that feat, interest is expected to flood in, given his remarkable talent and potential.
Fortunately for Burnley, Esteve is under contract until 2029, positioning them strongly to demand a significant transfer fee should he leave.
Maxime Esteve’s attitude shows why he’s wanted
Esteve’s mature attitude and team-first mentality have further enhanced his reputation.
In a previous conversation with BBC Radio Lancashire, he spoke highly of the collective effort behind Burnlet’s defensive triumphs.
“We worked during pre-season defensively, and you see the recovery runs off everyone,” he said.
“The winger, the striker, the midfielder; everyone works on the same thing.
“The attitude of everyone is amazing; it’s teamwork. There is the backline when you talk about it defensively, but when you see the game, all the players work on the same side.”
Despite his humble attitude, there’s no denying his defensive stats have played a huge part in Burnley’s success.
Appearances 38
Tackles won 19
Aerial duels won 78
Duels won 133
Recoveries 136
Interceptions 32
Maxime Esteve’s defending stats are a great sight for any club interested in the youngster.
With him winning 19 tackles, 63.9% aerial duels and 54.3% of his tackles.
With Scott Parker’s side setting their sights on securing a top-two finish in the Championship, Esteve’s immediate focus remains on helping Burnley achieve promotion to the Premier League.
The Clarets will host Bristol City at home following the international break, determined to solidify their position ahead of Leeds United and Sheffield United.