Everton receive message from Championship star amid Moyes’ £30m transfer push

Everton’s Premier League status appears safe for another season, and the future looks promising with David Moyes at the helm.

Since his return, the Scotsman has made a significant impact—so much so that if he had taken over earlier, Everton would currently sit sixth in the table.

His influence has been immediate and positive, sparking real optimism for the club’s direction.

With the summer transfer window approaching, expectations are high.

Moyes is reportedly targeting Championship talents, and one potential signing, Maxime Esteve, has drawn particular interest.

Esteve, a standout performer at Burnley this season, has thrived under Scott Parker, whose tactical approach has brought defensive stability to the team.

Their impressive defensive record has naturally drawn attention from Premier League clubs, with Moyes personally scouting Esteve.

Often referred to as a ‘Rolls-Royce’ of a defender, the Frenchman is considered a top target for Everton this summer. However, his recent comments suggest he’s fully focused on Burnley—for now.

“I am a Burnley player, I love this club, and I’m very, very good here,” Esteve stated in a pre-match press conference.

“So I don’t think about nothing, nowhere, I just think about football in Burnley and finish the season very well.

That’s the most important, finishing in the Premier League. That’s the objective. I just think about this.”

Despite Esteve’s current loyalty, Moyes might still have a path forward.

Valued at around £30 million, Esteve’s price could rise if Burnley secures promotion.

Yet Moyes could persuade the 22-year-old by presenting a compelling vision under Everton’s new ownership, The Friedkin Group.

A key factor in this could be the potential departure of Jarrad Branthwaite, who has been linked with Manchester United.

Though losing Branthwaite would be a blow, it could open the door for Esteve to step straight into a starting role—while also helping Everton secure a substantial transfer fee.

Esteve is the same age as Branthwaite, and although the two differ in style and current profile, the Frenchman has shown immense potential.

His role in Burnley’s defensive success—conceding just 13 goals this season—makes him an ideal fit for Moyes’ plans.

To push the project forward, Everton may need to make tough choices.

But if Moyes can execute this move, Esteve could become a cornerstone of the club’s new era.