Tottenham Hotspur must be ready for the departure of defender Cristian Romero, a target for Atletico Madrid this summer.
The Argentine, who earns £165,000 per week, has hinted that he wants to play in Spain.
Spurs are ramping up transfer proceedings as they bid to strengthen the squad for new manager Thomas Frank, and a centre-back should be atop the wishlist.
According to L’Equipe, Tottenham have reopened talks with Burnley central defender Maxime Esteve.
The North Londoners had tried to sign the 24-year-old in the final hours of the winter transfer window but could not get a deal over the line. They are now back at it.
The Spurs hierarchy reestablished contact with the newly promoted side in hopes of reaching an agreement. Last winter, Burnley were demanding more than €35 million.
It remains unclear how much they will demand for the impressive Frenchman after his outstanding season in the Championship, which caught the eye.
Esteve played a massive role as the Clarets secured promotion to the Premier League, keeping 30 clean sheets in 46 games while winning 62% of his aerial and 65% of his ground duels.
Burnley manager Scott Parker was already effusively praising Esteve after his impressive start to the 2024/25 campaign.
Parker said (via Burnley Express): “For sure, we have got an exceptional player in Maxi, and we are going to work tirelessly with him to keep nudging him along.
“But he has been brilliant for us since I have been here.”
Esteve could prove a terrific addition for a Tottenham side eager to become more defensively resolute (view).
Only the three relegated teams and Wolverhampton Wanderers conceded more goals than Spurs this term.
Frank will need to shore up that backline, and Esteve could be the man to partner Micky van de Ven.
He will potentially provide competition for Kevin Danso and Radu Dragusin in the centre of defence.
(Stats from Sofascore)