Everton manager David Moyes
Credit: Imago
Parth Jhaveri
Mon 31 March 2025 11:10, UK
Everton are preparing for a significant summer transfer window as the new owners plan a major squad overhaul.
The Toffees have already started their background work for the summer transfer window and the defence looks set to undergo an overhaul.
With the uncertain future of Jarrad Branthwaite and the expiring contracts of Michael Keane, Mason Holgate, Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young, reinforcing the defence becomes David Moyes’ top priority.
To improve the backline, Moyes has been evaluating the options in the market and it seems he has found the right man to strengthen the defence.
Moyes will look to strengthen the defence in the summer (Credit: Imago)
Everton eye Burnley centre-back
Everton have long been said to retain an interest in Burnley defender Maxime Esteve. The 22-year-old has been a vital part of the Burnley team pushing for Premier League promotion.
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Esteve has played 39 Championship games for the Clarets and helped them keep 28 clean sheets in the league, the most by any team in the country this season.
The Frenchman’s contributions in the backline have been key in Burnley knocking on the door for a return to the top tier of English football.
Everton contracts expiring at the end of the season
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Abdoulaye Doucoure
Seamus Coleman
Michael Keane
Idrissa Gueye
Mason Holgate
Ashley Young
Joao Virginia
Asmir Begovic
Everton have a number of players out of contract this summer
Esteve’s displays are admired by Everton and to further evaluate the centre-back, Moyes made a personal check on the Burnley man as he watched Burnley beat Bristol City, as per journalist Alan Nixon (30 March).
Nixon describes Esteve as “outstanding” and adds that Everton are looking to sign two central defenders. The Toffees have enough money to splash on the right players, with The Friedkin Group fully behind Moyes.
Branthwaite could leave Everton this summer (Credit: Imago)
Esteve could be Branthwaite replacement
Branthwaite is expected to attract attention this summer, too, with top clubs once again testing the Merseyside club’s resolve.
Everton would ideally like to keep Branthwaite on Merseyside beyond this summer, but a lot depends on the offers coming in for him and the player’s desire.
In the event of the Englishman’s departure, Esteve could be touted as the perfect replacement for Branthwaite.
Just like Branthwaite, the Burnley centre-back is 22 and has impressed this season. He is comfortable with ball at his feet and has solid passing skills.
The France Under-21s defender averages 69 passes per game and records a 90.1 per cent pass completion.
With Esteve in the Everton backline, Moyes would not have to worry about building from the back as the former Montpellier man would prove to be an important outlet in the backline.
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