Tottenham have revived their interest in Burnley defender Maxime Esteve
Tottenham Hotspur are accelerating their summer transfer business as they enter a new era under Thomas Frank.
The Lilywhites confirmed their second signing of the summer transfer window in the shape of Japanese defensive prospect Kota Takai. The 20-year-old has arrived from J1 League club Kawasaki Frontale, signing a five-year deal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Apart from making new additions, new Spurs boss Thomas Frank must quickly seek a solution over Cristian Romero’s future. The Argentinean international endured a torrid time with injuries last season but returned in time to produce a Man of the Match display in Tottenham’s Europa League final win over Manchester United.
Atletico Madrid have been working hard to sign Romero, who still has two years remaining on his contract at the White Hart Lane. Tottenham want to keep the experienced defender but he desires to play in La Liga. Should the 27-year-old leave for Atletico Madrid, it looks like the Hotspur Way chiefs would look to raid a newly-promoted Premier League outfit for his potential replacement.
Tottenham revive interest in Burnley defender
According to a report from French publication L’Equipe, Tottenham have ‘resumed discussions’ with Burnley over the potential signing of Maxime Esteve. The centre-back was the subject of a €24m bid from the North London club in closing stages of the January transfer window, but the offer was turned down by Burnley, who wanted to keep him for their promotion bid.
Maxime Esteve was an ever-present for the Clarets in their promotion-winning campaign, starting every game as they secured an immediate return to the top-flight under Scott Parker. The Frenchman was one of the standout defenders in the Championship, impressing with his no-nonsense defending and physicality and helping his team enjoy the best defensive record in the division. Parker’s side only ended up conceding 16 goals throughout the season.
Should Spurs take a gamble on Maxime Esteve?
Esteve, upon joining from French side Montpellier in January 2024, has been a rock at the back for Burnley. The defender has shortage of Premier League experience, having made only 16 appearances in the top flight. This makes him a big gamble for Spurs, especially if they are considering him as a potential replacement for a World Cup winner like Romero.
It will be interesting to see what unfolds in the coming weeks but Daniel Levy and Co. must go for an established centre-back to bolster their defensive unit, rather than taking a risk on Esteve.
