Everton must accelerate Maxime Esteve deal to beat rivals to signature

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Credit: Imago Thu 7 May 2026 16:23, UK Everton will need to accelerate a move for Maxime Esteve if they want to sign him this summer as Bayer Leverkusen join the race for his services.Everton are set to be in the market for a new centre-back this summer, especially if they are able to clinch European qualification next month.Esteve was closely linked with a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium last year, but he stayed at Burnley and signed a new contract following their promotion to the Premier LeagueTheir season could not have gone much worse, and Esteve was unhappy with the decision to dismiss Scott Parker a week after relegation back to the Championship was confirmedInterest in his services is rising as a move away from Turf Moor beckons, with Everton’s transfer plans potentially altered after a new update. 💸 Everton Transfer News 💸 Get the latest recruitment inside track from the Hill Dickinson Stadium: exclusive updates on the pursuit of Liam Delap, the Friedkin Group’s summer budget, and Jack Grealish’s permanent future. VISIT THE EVERTON TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Everton will need to move quickly for Maxime Esteve as Bayer Leverkusen register their interestEsteve was a key part of Burnley’s record-breaking backline in 2024-25, with Parker clearly able to get the best out of him in Championship football.The 23-year-old has continued to impress at times in the Premier League, but has also struggled alongside most of his teammates, with relegation seeming likely from very early on.Appearances32Minutes played2765′Successful pass %86.8%Duels won %65.9%Aerial duels won %68.4%Interceptions per 901.14Clearances per 906.8Esteve’s 2025-26 PL statsSources have told Football Insider that John Stones is keen to move abroad rather than return to Everton as he prepares to leave Man City, so they will need to look at other targets, with Esteve looking like a shrewd alternative.He was on their radar last summer and could well be a target again over the coming months, but if they are interested, a move will need to be brokered as soon as possible.That is because Sky Sports have reported that German giants Leverkusen are showing strong interest, with two clubs in the Premier League also keeping tabs on his availability as Burnley prepare to accept the biggest offer.Everton may be one of those sides, but even if they are not, they must accelerate plans to sign Esteve soon before Leverkusen advance in talks.What has Esteve said about his future at Burnley?Esteve clearly wanted to stay at Burnley last summer, but they were on the up at that point, and now face a summer of uncertainty with a new manager and fresh ideas set to be introduced.Back in January, the defender was adamant that he saw a future at Turf Moor, with Parker again mentioned as a key part of his journey.Speaking to the Burnley Express, he said: “I know I am young, but I don’t have the time in football, you know.

I don’t have the time, so honestly, I think this is the best club to improve for me as a young player.“As a centre-back also, I spoke a lot with the gaffer (Parker), so I’m still very, very happy here.”Esteve understandably reiterated his desire to stay at Burnley over the winter, with survival still a genuine possibility, but relegation will surely have changed his view.Parker’s departure is another vital reason why he could look to leave, so Everton need to shortlist him once again ahead of the summer window and get a deal done quickly before Leverkusen make him theirs. 🔵 Everton FC Master Hub 🔵 The definitive digital directory for the Toffees. Track the Friedkin era, Finch Farm fitness updates, and the transition to the New Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.

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