RB Leipzig has announced the signing of Maxim Esteve, with a contract running until 2031.

RB Leipzig have officially confirmed the signing of French defender Maxime Esteve. The 24-year-old centre-back previously played for English club Burnley, and the two sides have reached a long-term agreement, with his contract running until 2031. At the start of the new season, Maxime Esteve will wear the number 3 jersey for Leipzig in all competitions.  

Maxime Esteve began his professional career in the French league before moving to England, where he continued to improve his skills at Burnley. Although only 24 years old, he has already played in both Ligue 1 and the Premier League, demonstrating consistent form. With his strong physique, solid defensive technique, and accurate judgment of the game, Maxime Esteve is gradually becoming a highly anticipated young center-back in European football.  

RB Leipzig's sporting director, Marcel Schäfer, praised the signing, saying, "The arrival of Maxime Esteve is of great value to the team's future development. Although he is still a young player, he has already gained a wealth of experience in France and England, and showed significant growth during his time at Burnley. He meets all our requirements for this type of center-back, possessing excellent physical attributes, great mobility, reliable left-footed technique, and stable ball control, while also actively participating in defense and demonstrating strong physicality and pressing ability."  

“He demonstrated exceptional initiative and decisiveness during the match, and also possesses the potential to become a leader. He is accustomed to communicating with his teammates on the field, playing an organizational and commanding role, and proactively taking on defensive responsibilities. Off the field, he also displays maturity, possessing clear thinking and a stable personality. From his competitive level and personal qualities to his professionalism, Maxime Esteve aligns perfectly with RB Leipzig's philosophy. We expect him to quickly adapt to the team environment and play a key role in the defensive system.”  

After completing the transfer, Maxim Esteve expressed his anticipation for the new journey, saying, "I am incredibly happy to join RB Leipzig. It's a club that values speed, intensity, and a proactive spirit. They always strive to surpass themselves and achieve greater things, which aligns perfectly with my football philosophy. I hope to adapt to the environment as quickly as possible, make a difference in matches, work with my teammates, and win more honors for the club."  

“My previous experiences in France and England have given me a wealth of valuable experience, and I hope to bring those lessons to RB Leipzig. I was deeply moved by the communication between the club and me; they showed me a clear direction for development and also showed me the potential for future growth. Now, I can’t wait to officially meet my teammates and fans, and I hope we can work together in the Champions League, Bundesliga, and German Cup to achieve even greater goals.”  

Image source: Internet/RB Leipzig official website