Everton’s top summer target has played almost every minute in elite defence

Everton are enjoying life under David Moyes and look to have a new priority transfer target on their mind ahead of the upcoming summer window, per a report.

Everton looking to make a mark in the summer window

With the move to Bramley Moore Dock and a solid on-field product making life as an Everton fan rather fun right now, a strong summer window could elevate optimism to peak levels in recent years ahead of next campaign.

David Moyes knows transfer activities in the off-season will take the form of a rebuild, where he also has to decide who will remain from his current crop of stars. However, The Friedkin Group’s promise of financial backing may see some statement new arrivals on Merseyside.

According to reports, West Bromwich Albion man Tom Fellows and Juventus star Federico Gatti have emerged as early Everton targets, which may come as the result of several experienced stars coming to the end of their road at Goodison Park.

Sunderland’s Chris Rigg is also on the Toffees’ radar amid rival interest from Tottenham Hotspur, who are believed to have put a £38 million bid forward for the 17-year-old.

Ultimately, Moyes has plenty to stew over in his long-term pursuit of Premier League stability. There has been little clarity on the future of 13 Everton players with the summer now approaching; that is before you even touch the sides on potential ins and outs.

Now, the Toffees’ transfer path could be about to become a little clearer, with a new priority target identified to bolster the defensive ranks before 2025/26.

Everton view Burnley’s Maxime Esteve as priority defensive target

According to Foot Mercato, Burnley’s Maxime Esteve has emerged as a priority target for Everton following his robust defensive displays at Turf Moor this campaign. Jarrad Branthwaite has been heavily linked with a move elsewhere, which could pave the way for Moyes to firm up his initial admiration for the £30-million rated star.

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The former Everton star left Goodison Park in acrimonious circumstances.

The Clarets have a fighting chance of claiming promotion and Esteve has played 3337 of their 3420 league minutes in the Sky Bet Championship, equating to 98%. Within his 40 appearances across all competitions, the 23-year-old has scored once. More importantly, he is part of Europe’s most solid backline, conceding on just 11 occasions.

Labelled “unbelievable” by manager Scott Parker, Esteve is also attracting interest from the likes of West Ham United and AC Milan due to his heroic exploits.

Now, Everton face the challenge of convincing the former France Under-21 international to opt for them once the window opens. Should Burnley fail to return to the Premier League, they could be in with a fighting chance of winning the race.