Maxime Esteve is not a name many West Ham fans will be familiar with: Taylor Harwood-Bellis has been the top-touted centre back addition discussed ahead of the June 12th window. But Championship side Burnley’s left sided centre-back has been getting himself noticed and is surely destined for Premier League football.
Burnley’s only chance of hanging onto the 22 – year old is to gain promotion themselves. However even then, with the array of clubs who, alongside West Ham United, have been scouting the youngster, the chances are that the Frenchman will find offers too good to turn down away from Turf Moor in the summer.
West Ham scouts were watching him during the Burnley v West Brom game according to the 72.co.uk who report:
Most Read on West Ham News
“[Burnley’s] brilliant backline has featured star man Maxime Esteve. The Frenchman was solid in the Premier League and after staying following relegation, the 22-year-old has arguably been one of the most important players for Scott Parker.”
“Admirers AC Milan have been on another scouting trip to watch the Burnley star. The Italian giants watched him impress against West Brom, but also in attendance were Everton and West Ham. The Hammers’ interest is new, with Esteve potentially a summer option at the London Stadium.”
Burnley’s defensive record is astonishing with Esteve a component: Just eleven goals conceded in 38 matches – makes him a likely target for a Premier League side to take a punt in the summer.
Claimed by transfermarkt to have an €11 million value, he’ll sell for significantly more if the competition for his signature gets going. Still a very ‘West Ham’ budget though for Potter’s summer rebuild and the right age profile to take the club forwards.