At a glance
- Maxime Esteve linked by Brighton supporters as Van Hecke successor
- Burnley defender valued at around £21 million
- French centre-back suits Fabian Hurzeler’s tactical system
Brighton & Hove Albion supporters have already started discussing possible replacements for Jan Paul van Hecke this summer and one name that keeps appearing is Maxime Esteve.
The Burnley defender may have just endured relegation from the Premier League, but the 23-year-old would suit Fabian Hurzeler’s system perfectly if Van Hecke leaves the Amex.
According to Transfermarkt, Esteve is currently valued at around £21 million and his profile ticks many of the boxes Brighton look for in a modern centre-back.
Born in Montpellier, Esteve came through the academy at his hometown club before joining Burnley initially on loan in January 2024. Burnley later made the move permanent, and despite their difficult season, Esteve’s stock has continued to rise.
Why Esteve Fits Brighton
At 6ft 4in, he brings physical presence, but he is far more mobile than many defenders of his size. That balance makes him particularly attractive in systems that demand defenders to cover large spaces and defend aggressively high up the pitch.
He is also positionally flexible. Primarily a centre-back, Esteve can operate on the left side of a back three or even fill in at left-back when required. It is not a traditional overlapping full-back role, but more of a hybrid profile similar to players like Ezri Konsa or Nathan Ake.
That versatility would suit Brighton well as Hurzeler wants defenders capable of building attacks under pressure, drawing opponents in and creating openings through quick vertical transitions. Esteve already shows many of those qualities.
Esteve’s Style of Play
He stays calm in possession, rarely forces passes and waits for pressing triggers before releasing the ball. While he is not an expansive long passer, he progresses play effectively through short and medium-range passing and looks comfortable receiving possession in tight areas. Like Van Hecke, he also carries the ball forward intelligently without overcommitting.
Defensively, Esteve closes angles well, turns quickly and uses his long frame to make late recovery tackles rather than diving in early. He committed just 13 fouls all season and received only one yellow card, highlighting the composure in his defending.
Burnley’s relegation means interest in Esteve will inevitably grow this summer. And for Brighton fans, the appeal is obvious. He is young, technically secure, positionally flexible and stylistically suited to the aggressive football Hurzeler wants to build.
Other Clubs Already Interested
Everton and Bayer Leverkusen are both interested in the Frenchman, meaning the Albion will need to move fast if they want to get a deal done.
Brighton were scouting Esteve back in 2022 when he played for Montpellier, so they are already aware of the quality he possesses. Four years later, it may finally be time to bring him to the south coast.
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