Liverpool and Chelsea are both firmly interested in Burnley centre-back Maxime Esteve, with TEAMtalk reporting the Premier League rivals ‘hold strong admiration’ for the defender.
The 24-year-old has attracted widespread attention despite Burnley enduring a difficult campaign that ended in relegation from the top flight this season.
Esteve is a commanding 6ft 4in left-footed centre-back who is strong, good in the air, and comfortable playing out from the back.
He reads the game well and contributes efficiently in defensive situations, making him an attractive proposition for clubs operating at the highest level of European football.
Transfermarkt values the French defender at around £24m, and Burnley are reportedly resigned to losing him this summer following their relegation.
Although Esteve is contracted at Turf Moor until 2030, the club’s drop into the Championship is expected to accelerate his departure during this transfer window.
Liverpool’s interest appears to be driven by a long-term search for a left-footed centre-back to eventually succeed Virgil van Dijk, who is 34 and showed signs of decline last term.
Ibrahima Konate has already departed the club on a free transfer, while Jeremy Jacquet is set to arrive from Stade Rennais, but a left-footed defensive option remains a priority for the Reds.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are rebuilding under Xabi Alonso and have made reinforcing the backline a key focus heading into the summer transfer window.
The Blues have consistently targeted young, high-potential players since Todd Boehly’s takeover, and Esteve fits that profile as a player still developing his game.
Crystal Palace have also been monitoring the Burnley defender closely, meaning Esteve has no shortage of suitors as the summer window opens.
Liverpool and Chelsea will now likely go head-to-head to determine which club makes a concrete approach to secure Esteve’s signature in the weeks ahead.