Crystal Palace Prepare Ambitious Summer Swoop for £50 Million-Rated French Defender Maxime Estève
Crystal Palace are reportedly preparing an ambitious summer move for highly-rated French centre-back Maxime Estève, as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the 2025/26 season. With Marc Guéhi’s future at Selhurst Park increasingly uncertain, the Eagles have identified Estève as a potential long-term replacement and are ready to test Burnley’s resolve with a big-money offer.
The 23-year-old defender, who joined Burnley from Montpellier for around £12.5 million, has seen his reputation soar following an exceptional debut season in English football. Estève quickly established himself as a defensive rock for the Clarets, earning widespread praise for his composure, aerial dominance, and tactical intelligence.
According to Football Insider, Palace have taken a keen interest in the Frenchman, but face a significant financial hurdle. Burnley are demanding a staggering £50 million for their star defender — a valuation that would smash Crystal Palace’s current transfer record. The fee reflects Burnley’s strong bargaining position after securing an immediate return to the Premier League and recognizing Estève’s integral role in that success.
Estève Emerges as Ideal Replacement for Guéhi
With Marc Guéhi expected to leave the club this summer amid growing interest from top Premier League sides, Crystal Palace are keen to move quickly in identifying a replacement. Guéhi, now entering the final year of his contract, has been a key figure in Palace’s recent defensive stability, and replacing him will be no easy task.
Estève, however, seems like a perfect fit. He was named in the Championship Team of the Season after helping Burnley record an astonishing 30 clean sheets — a testament to his influence and reliability at the heart of defence. At just 23, Estève still has significant room for development, and a move to a stable, ambitious Premier League side like Palace could provide the ideal next step in his career.
Palace’s European Ambitions a Potential Draw
Crystal Palace’s status as an emerging force in English football may help them attract talents like Estève. The Eagles capped off a historic 2024/25 campaign by lifting the FA Cup and qualifying for European competition for the first time in over a decade. With manager Oliver Glasner at the helm, Palace are embarking on a bold new chapter and are actively looking to reinforce all areas of the squad to remain competitive on multiple fronts.
For Estève, the prospect of playing regular Premier League football and competing in Europe could be extremely appealing. While Burnley will also be in the top flight next season, Palace offer a more ambitious and upward trajectory — something that could sway the Frenchman’s decision if personal terms are discussed.
Burnley Unlikely to Sell on the Cheap
Despite Palace’s interest, convincing Burnley to part ways with one of their top assets will be no easy feat. The Clarets are under no pressure to sell and are planning their Premier League campaign around Estève’s continued presence. Only a “ridiculous” offer — reportedly in the region of £50 million — would persuade them to reconsider.
Burnley are also aware that Estève’s stock is rising quickly, and with several Premier League and European clubs monitoring his development, they believe his value could increase further if he enjoys a strong start to next season.
Guéhi’s Imminent Departure Could Accelerate Move
As for Guéhi, the England international is believed to be exploring new challenges, with clubs like Manchester United, Tottenham, and Arsenal all reportedly monitoring his situation. Palace are reluctant to lose him, but with contract talks stalling and just 12 months remaining on his deal, the club may be forced to cash in rather than risk losing him for free next summer.
The funds from a Guéhi sale could help finance a move for Estève, and Palace’s recruitment team are working behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition should their defensive lynchpin depart.
Final Thoughts
Crystal Palace’s pursuit of Maxime Estève signals their intent to build on a landmark season and establish themselves as a consistent top-half Premier League side. While the £50 million price tag is steep, the Eagles may view it as a necessary investment in a player with Premier League-ready quality and long-term potential.
Whether Burnley can be convinced to sell remains to be seen — but this is one to watch as the summer transfer window heats up.