Everton want north-west star to replace Jarrad Branthwaite ‘if the worst happens’
Everton want to sign Maxime Esteve from Burnley this summer if Jarrad Branthwaite quits the club, sources have told Football Insider.
As was the case last time around, Branthwaite is set to be the subject of significant transfer speculation this summer, with Real Madrid joining Manchester United in the race to sign Everton’s star asset.
Football Insider revealed last month that the Toffees are “desperate” to keep hold of the 22-year-old, with Everton’s new-look boardroom keen to begin contract talks with Branthwaite as soon as possible.
However, “if the worst does happen” and Branthwaite heads for pastures new this summer, sources have told Football Insider that Burnley’s Esteve is seen as a strong replacement for the England centre-back.
Esteve has been an ever-present in the watertight Clarets’ Championship promotion bid this season, with Everton sending scouts to watch him on several occasions amid interest from West Ham and AC Milan.
Everton face double blow in Branthwaite, Esteve plan
Despite experienced scout Mick Brown telling Football Insider that his former employers Man United are unlikely to launch another bid for Branthwaite this summer, the defender could still head for pastures new.
Branthwaite leaving Merseyside could open the door for Everton to sign Esteve, but sources have told Football Insider that Burnley will be under no pressure to sell if they’re promoted back to the top-flight.
Burnley are well-placed to seal their Premier League return and won’t be letting the Frenchman go without a fight, with Esteve under contract until 2029 and in line to command a big fee this summer.
Jarrad Branthwaite future the key to new Everton era
Signing Esteve to play alongside Branthwaite could give Everton a rock-solid centre-back partnership for years to come, with the latter likely to play a key role in England’s defensive line for years going forward.
Paul Robinson told Football Insider in February that Esteve’s signature could be a bargaining chip in ensuring Branthwaite stays at Everton, but having both defenders to choose from is easier said than done.
Everton have been told to slap a £100million price tag on Branthwaite’s head before the transfer window opens, but with their financial struggles not entirely in the rear-view mirror, it remains to be seen if their resolve can be tested.