Burnley appear to be one step closer to bringing Maxime Esteve to the Premier League on deadline day after Ligue 1 outfit Montpellier signed a replacement for the £10 million Frenchman.
HITC Football understands that Vincent Kompany’s Clarets side agreed terms with Maxime Esteve earlier this week, with the France Under 21 international expected to swap Montpellier for Turf Moor to the tune of £10 million.
The 6ft 4ins central defender is also likely to sign a four-year deal in Lancashire.
And, while Burnley are now battling against the clock with the window closing tonight, the sight of a replacement arriving at Montpellier should remove one potential obstacle from Kompany’s path.
Burnley closer to Maxime Esteve deal
The Ligue 1 outfit have officially confirmed the signing of another central defender, Modibo Sagnan joining from FC Utrecht in the Eredivisie. Sagnan, Get France Football News reports, will cost Montpellier around £2.5 million.
“If (Esteve) leaves, he will leave Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday,” La Paillade coach Michel Der Zakarian said before the weekend’s 0-0 draw with Lille. “My wish is that he stays here.
“(But) if the club has a good offer and he has to leave, we will have to be able to replace him and we will wish him well wind and good luck.
“He is not at all disturbed (by the speculation).”
Busy deadline day at Turf Moor
Esteve will be tasked with strengthening a backline which has been breached 45 times this season, Burnley going down 3-1 at Manchester City on Wednesday. Only bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United have conceded more goals.
HITC Football understands that Burnley, who have already signed David Datro Fofana from Chelsea, have made an offer for Coventry City playmaker Callum O’Hare. Fenerbahce left-back Jayden Oosterwolde has also been linked.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
