Everton Set to Battle AC Milan in the Race to Sign 22-year-old Defender – Report
Maxime Esteve Transfer Latest: Everton Face Stiff Competition for Burnley Defender
Burnley’s defensive stalwart, Maxime Esteve, is attracting significant interest from European giants, with AC Milan, Everton, and West Ham among those reportedly monitoring his performances. According to Football League World, the Italian outfit sent scouts to watch the 22-year-old during Burnley’s recent draw against West Brom as they weigh up a summer move. However, they are not alone in their pursuit, as Everton and West Ham were also present to assess the centre-back.
Burnley’s Defensive Excellence: The Foundation of Promotion Push
Burnley’s promotion charge has been built on an exceptional defensive record. Their 2-0 victory over Swansea marked an astonishing 27 clean sheets in 38 matches, with just 11 goals conceded in that period. These are numbers that demonstrate defensive supremacy, and Esteve has been a key component of their success.
Having not missed a single game, the Frenchman has impressed with his composure, reading of the game, and ability to dominate opposition attackers. His performances have consistently been of the highest level, reinforcing the belief that he is destined to play at an elite level next season.
AC Milan Lead the Chase, But Premier League Clubs Are Watching Closely
Journalist Alan Nixon has confirmed that AC Milan have stepped up their interest in Esteve, sending scouts to evaluate the left-footed defender. Given Milan’s pedigree and their penchant for recruiting young, technically gifted defenders, it is easy to see why Esteve would appeal to the Serie A giants.
However, Milan face strong competition from England, with both Everton and West Ham reportedly interested. For clubs battling to establish themselves in the Premier League, Esteve could represent a crucial defensive reinforcement. His ability to remain composed under pressure and contribute to build-up play from the back makes him an ideal fit for top-flight football.
Burnley’s Promotion Key to Retaining Esteve’s Services
While the level of interest in Esteve suggests he will be playing at a higher level next season, Burnley fans will be hoping that higher level is in the Premier League with them. The only realistic way for Burnley to retain the Frenchman would be to secure automatic promotion.
Even if they do go up, the prospect of a lucrative transfer remains. Esteve is contracted until 2029, which ensures Burnley can demand a substantial fee should they decide to sell. It is a testament to their scouting and recruitment that they secured such a talented player on a long-term deal, putting them in a strong position regardless of what happens in the summer transfer window.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From an Everton perspective, the prospect of signing Maxime Esteve is an intriguing one. The Toffees have struggled for defensive consistency in recent seasons, and Esteve’s arrival could provide the stability they desperately need at the back.
His defensive numbers in the Championship are nothing short of extraordinary, and while there will always be questions about how he would adapt to the intensity of the Premier League, his intelligence and ability on the ball suggest he has the qualities to make the transition smoothly. At 22, he is still developing, meaning his potential resale value could also appeal to Everton’s recruitment team.
However, competing with AC Milan for his signature will be no easy task. Milan’s history, Champions League pedigree, and ability to offer immediate European football could be decisive factors in Esteve’s decision. Everton, therefore, would need to sell him on the long-term vision and ensure they can offer the right financial package to persuade him to choose Goodison Park over San Siro.
One thing is clear—whoever secures Esteve will be landing a top-class defensive prospect. His performances this season have been exceptional, and it would be no surprise to see him playing at an elite level for years to come.
-
Report: Arsenal & Chelsea face competition for £50m transfer
Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly set to face competition from Real Madrid for the potential transfer of Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.The 19-year-old has impressed in the Premier League this ...Yahoo Sports - 2d -
Everton Want To Sign 25-Year-Old Israel Player: Will The Move Go Through?
Everton might be looking into the upcoming transfer window as a time to strengthen their attack and attacking midfield. They are currently 14th in the Premier League points table with 34 points in ...Yahoo Sports - 1d -
Report: Brighton Could Cash in on Midfielder as European Giants Circle
Brighton Set Price for Ayari as European Giants CircleBrighton & Hove Albion have built a reputation as one of the most astute operators in the transfer market, and their latest midfield prodigy, ...Yahoo Sports - 2d -
Another comeback and Reijnders record: All the key stats from AC Milan vs. Como
AC Milan clinched all three points against Como despite going 1-0 down, completing yet another comeback this season. As always, there are some interesting facts and stats to note from the ...Yahoo Sports - 1d -
Journalist: Chelsea beat Man Utd, AC Milan, Barcelona, Bayern, and PSG to new signing
A Journalist has reported that Chelsea actually beat Manchester United, AC Milan, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and PSG to a new signing.The news comes after Chelsea were defeated by Arsenal in the ...Yahoo Sports - 9h -
Official: AC Milan appoint Francesca Montini as Chief Brand Officer
AC Milan have official announced the appointment of Francesca Montini as the club’s new Chief Brand Officer.In a statement on their website Milan have confirmed the hiring of Montini. Reporting ...Yahoo Sports - 11h -
West Ham tipped to pursue transfer of striker who’s “a bit like Ollie Watkins”
West Ham United are being tipped to pursue the transfer of AC Milan striker Tammy Abraham this summer.The 27-year-old is currently on loan at Milan from Roma, and one imagines his future will be ...Yahoo Sports - 3d -
FRANCESCA MONTINI APPOINTED AS AC MILAN'S NEW CHIEF BRAND OFFICER
AC Milan can announce the appointment of Francesca Montini as Chief Brand Officer. Reporting directly to CEO Giorgio Furlani, she will oversee the Marketing, Branding, Communication, and Content & ...Yahoo Sports - 12h -
Milan face complex situation as Theo Hernandez blocks potential summer transfer
Milan are set to rely on their new sporting director to resolve the complex situation surrounding Theo Hernandez’s future at the club. According to a report by Daniele Longo, Milan have faced a roa...Yahoo Sports - 3d
More from Yahoo Sports
-
Twins’ Royce Lewis will miss start of season after hurting his hamstring
Lewis is coming off a 2024 season that saw him appear in just 82 games due to quadriceps and adductor issues.Yahoo Sports - 1h -
Texans to pick up Derek Stingley's Jr.'s fifth-year option ahead of extension
The Houston Texans will have Derek Stingley Jr. under contract through 2029 after agreeing to pick up one final year on his rookie deal.Yahoo Sports - 4h -
MLB hyped up a video game-like replay view from the Tokyo Dome and fans justifiably hated it
The on-field replay did not go over how MLB expected.Yahoo Sports - 6h -
The Players Championship 2025 prize money: Full payout from the $25 million purse
Here's how the $25 million purse will be paid out this week at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.Yahoo Sports - 23h -
Auburn basketball’s first round opponent revealed ahead of 2025 NCAA Tournament
Auburn basketball will face either Alabama State or St. Francis in March Madness to open its 2025 NCAA Tournament men’s bracket.Yahoo Sports - 1d
More in Sports
-
March Madness 2025 bracket: NCAA Tournament picks, predictions from advanced college basketball model
SportsLine's model has nailed 20 first-round upsets by double-digit seeds and revealed its NCAA Tournament bracket 2025CBS Sports - 13m -
March Madness always delivers Cinderella upsets: Here's how Bucknell delivered one of the biggest 20 years ago
Kansas losing to Bucknell in 2005 shows what can happen in the Big DanceCBS Sports - 15m -
The women’s March Madness bracket is here -- so is your guide to all 68 teams
We look at every team in the women's NCAA bracket.ESPN - 29m -
Let the fun begin: Make your picks for the women's tournament
Compete with friends and family to show off your skills by creating or joining a group now!ESPN - 29m -
Your guide to all 68 teams in the men’s NCAA tournament
The bracket is set, here's everything you need to know about the competitors for this year's national title.ESPN - 29m