Ahead of the summer transfer window, it seems Everton are searching for a new centre-back.
There have been frequent links to John Stones after Manchester City announced the England international will be leaving at the end of the season.
Everton were also linked to Marco Senesi before Tottenham reached an early agreement with the Bournemouth defender. As a result, the Cherries need a new centre-back as well, and Sportsboom say Bournemouth are now jostling with Everton over the signing of Maxime Esteve.
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Everton want Maxime Esteve – who held 2024 talks with the Toffees
The Toffees have long been interested in the Frenchman.
L’Equipe claimed as far back as May 2024 that Everton spoke to Esteve after Burnley were relegated, but the 23-year-old ended up staying at Turf Moor and has remained there ever since.
Now – however – an exit looks likely after Burnley once again suffered relegation.
Sportsboom say the Clarets are looking for £20m to sell the Montpellier-born defender this summer, but could receive more if a bidding war were to commence between Everton and Bournemouth.
Esteve has made 32 appearances in the Premier League so far this season, but with Burnley conceding 75 goals in 35 league games, he has largely been part of the division’s worst defence.
Nevertheless, Everton seem convinced by the Burnley No.5 and his talent.
Moyes has even personally scouted Esteve – so the fact Everton remain interested after all this time suggests they have no qualms about what he could bring to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The signing of another centre-back would raise doubts over the future of James Tarkowski as a regular starter at Everton.
Michael Keane has penned a new contract, while Everton want Jake O’Brien to play centrally next season. When fit again, Jarrad Branthwaite is expected to be a regular starter as usual.
Do Everton still need to add a new centre-back this summer? 🤔
Tarkowski has been poor in 2026 so far, and considering he turns 34 in November, Everton may already be looking for a replacement.
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