Burnley are now on the verge of seeing Maxime Estève complete his move to RB Leipzig. The deal is entering its final steps after reports at the weekend that an agreement in principle had been reached.
Journalist Philipp Hinze, reporting for Sky Sport Germany, states the French defender is due to undergo a medical on Wednesday. He will then sign a contract running until 2031.
The update builds on BILD’s earlier reporting. That revealed Leipzig had agreed a deal with Burnley worth around €25m (£21.7m). According to Hinze, that figure remains the guaranteed fee. The agreement also includes a sell-on clause and a series of bonus payments.
Burnley agreement could eventually pass €30m
Philipp Hinze explains the add-ons are both relatively small and difficult to trigger. If every bonus were activated, the total package would climb beyond €30m (£26.1m).
The German journalist, however, stresses that scenario is considered highly unlikely. This is because it would require Leipzig to enjoy a sustained period of major success, collecting several trophies over the coming years.
That means Burnley are expected to bank the guaranteed €25m (£21.7m). Any significant increase would depend on exceptional achievements in Germany.
Why Leipzig moved quickly
Maxime Estève’s transfer is also being explained by Leipzig as a market opportunity they felt they could not afford to miss.
After previously intending to generate sales before making further additions, Leipzig have instead pushed ahead with the Burnley defender’s signing immediately.
According to Hinze, the German side believed waiting any longer could have jeopardised the move. Their spending this summer – with Estève, Rocco Reitz, Manu Koné and Brajan Gruda all part of their plans – now means player sales will become the next priority.
From Burnley’s perspective, the deal appears to be entering its final formalities. Barring any issues with the medical, Estève looks set to complete his move to the Bundesliga after becoming one of the Clarets’ standout performers despite last season’s relegation.
