Burnley are making steps towards their second signing of the January transfer window.
With just nine days remaining in the January transfer window, Burnley has secured one signing thus far, bringing in David Datro Fofana on loan from Chelsea. Fofana might make his debut in the upcoming match against Manchester City on January 31, and the manager is eager to welcome another new addition before that date.
Burnley is feeling the urgency to maximize the transfer window, aiming to bolster their squad and increase their chances of a substantial survival push in the second half of the season. Currently positioned 19th in the Premier League table, they are five points away from safety.
Despite the commitment to a prudent financial approach and avoiding excessive spending in anticipation of potential relegation, the club had set expectations of being active in the transfer market this month. They have maintained an open-minded stance, willing to strengthen any position if the right upgrade becomes available. It appears that they may have identified a potential addition at the center-back position.
Burnley “working on” deal for Esteve
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Burnley is looking to sign Maxime Esteve from Montpellier. The club is currently “working on a deal” for the defender, who is one of the “main options” on their roster.
Romano also notes that Esteve has now reached the final 18 months of his contract, and Turf Moor hopes that this will put Montpellier under pressure to sell at a reasonable price.
Esteve could give Burnley what they need on and off the pitch
Esteve, who is still only 21, made his Ligue 1 debut for Montpellier in the first game of the 2021-22 season and went on to start 20 more games that year. It would have been more if he had not been sidelined with a muscle issue from late November to late February.
He appeared in the majority of his team’s matches last year (18), and while he was out at the start of the current season, he found his way back in and is now on a run of five consecutive starts. He has already made 60 appearances for the club, and he made his debut for France’s under-21 team in September.
Despite Montpellier currently holding the 12th position in Ligue 1, they find themselves just two points above the relegation play-off spot in an 18-team league, having accumulated only 18 points so far. This indicates that Esteve is familiar with playing for a struggling team with significant challenges, making his experience valuable for Burnley in the upcoming months. Esteve ranked fourth among all under-21 players in Europe’s top five leagues last season for interceptions per 90, and as of January 17, he still held the fourth position in the same age group for clearances per 90.
Described as a “special” player by under-23 talent scout Antonio Mango, Esteve is not only skilled but also holds his teammates accountable. Following a defeat to a 10-man Strasbourg in February 2023, he insisted that the squad “pull their fingers out,” showcasing a determined and demanding attitude. Manager Kompany may see this mindset as a valuable asset in the team’s dressing room.
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