Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Burnley centre-back Maxime Esteve is heating up, but Give Me Sport reports that negotiations are already running into trouble.
Burnley’s valuation of the French defender is proving to be a major obstacle for the north London club as they look to reshape their squad under new head coach Thomas Frank.
“Tottenham have been locked in talks over a move for Esteve, according to GMS sources, but Burnley’s demands are proving to be a significant stumbling block as the newly-promoted Premier League side have slapped a £50million price tag on him in a bid to deter suitors from testing their resolve with a formal offer.”
Despite Esteve’s strong campaign, Spurs believe the fee being demanded is too high. According to the report, “Tottenham do not feel that Burnley have priced Esteve at market value” and may be hoping for the player himself to express a desire to leave in order to push the deal through at closer to £30million.
Tottenham are not alone in their admiration for Esteve. Give Me Sport reveals that “Crystal Palace and Everton – along with reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich – have also included him on their shortlist of targets.”
With multiple clubs circling, Burnley are right to feel they can demand top dollar. But Tottenham are attempting to act early and decisively. “There has been contact with Burnley over the possibility of a deal for Esteve,” the report adds, as Spurs try to secure the 23-year-old before other clubs intensify their interest.
Tottenham’s interest in Esteve goes back to Ange Postecoglou’s time in charge, and Give Me Sport confirms that “Tottenham’s interest in Esteve predates the appointment of Frank… [they] have had him in their sights for more than six months.”
It is clear that this is a long-standing pursuit, not merely a reaction to recent performances. Esteve’s weekly wage of £15,000 also makes him an attractive financial proposition from a contract perspective, with Spurs confident they can meet personal terms if a fee can be agreed with Burnley.
With Mohammed Kudus on the verge of completing a £55million switch from West Ham, Tottenham are not holding back in the early days of the window. As Give Me Sport reports, “Spurs are on the verge of sealing the arrival of Mohammed Kudus… but head coach Thomas Frank is in the market for further reinforcements.”
The focus on Esteve highlights Spurs’ intent to address their backline, especially with Europa League football and the Champions League to manage. Alongside that, a new left-back is being sought, and Yves Bissouma’s potential exit, with Juventus interested, may create further gaps to fill.
