Liverpool, Chelsea and Palace battle for Maxime Esteve

Liverpool are in a three-way race with Chelsea and Crystal Palace to sign Burnley defender Maxime Esteve this summer. Esteve, 24, made 36 appearances for Burnley last season without scoring or assisting. His contract at Turf Moor expires in 2030, complicating a potential cut-price deal. The French centre-back has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising defenders after a consistent campaign. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola could view him as a long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konaté.

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Standing at 1.93m, Esteve excels in aerial duels and provides composure in build-up play. His Premier League experience means minimal adaptation time at Anfield. A reliable tackler, he wins possession cleanly and clears danger under pressure. Iraola’s backline could gain physicality and tactical discipline with his addition. At 24, Esteve has peak years ahead, making him a strategic investment for Liverpool’s title ambitions across competitions.