Major boost for Burnley as French defender pens new deal

Burnley supporters have a reason to be encouraged ahead of the team's return to the Premier League.

Centre-back, Maxime Esteve, has committed his long-term future to the club as he put pen to paper on a new five-year-deal today (30 July).

The news is a massive boost for Scott Parker's side as the Frenchman was crucial in Burnley's automatic promotion from the Championship last season, featuring in all 46 league games.

Esteve and Burnley's defensive unit produced high levels of consistency in 2024/25, and were the key reason Parker was able to guide the team back up at the first attempt.

The Clarets conceded just 16 goals all season in last season's Championship, an English league record. The team would go on to finish the campaign with 100 points. 

Only goal-difference prevented Parker's side from going up to the Premier League in first place, as Daniel Farke's Leeds United side scored 95 league goals, 26 more than Burnley.

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Speaking on his decision to stay, Esteve stated: "I'm very happy to sign another deal. When I came here, straight away I thought it was special. My family felt it too. It's the best decision to stay at Burnley, for my progression and to play in the Premier League."

"This club, with the gaffer, with my team-mates, is the best place to be. I'm proud to sign a new deal."

The 23-year-old joined Burnley on loan from Montpellier during the second half of the 2023/24 campaign, before making the switch to The Clarets permanent a few months later. 

Burnley have added defensive reinforcements this summer, with the arrival of six-time Premier League winner, Kyle Walker, plus Axel Tuanzebe and Quilindschy Hartman.

Bashir Humphreys also joins on a permanent deal after spending time last season on loan at the club.

Esteve's new deal comes as a massive relief for Burnley after the recent departure of goalkeeper James Trafford back to Manchester City, and captain Josh Brownhill leaving after his contract expired and he chose to not sign a new deal.

Burnley's Premier League campaign will begin on August 16 away at Tottenham Hotspur.

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