Maxime Esteve bids emotional goodbye as he seals RB Leipzig move

Maxime Esteve has penned an emotional goodbye to Burnley after completing a move to German side RB Leipzig.

The 24-year-old ends his two-and-a-half-year stay at Turf Moor to sign for the Bundesliga outfit for an undisclosed fee.

It’s been widely reported that the centre-back has been sold for around £27m.

Esteve took to social media to address Burnley fans before his move was officially confirmed.

“Clarets, I don't even know where to start,” he penned.

“When I first arrived, I had no idea what this club would become for me. Today I'm leaving with memories I'll carry for the rest of my life.

“The promotion we lived through together. Discovering the Premier League, a dream I've had since I was a kid. And the captain's armband, that I had the honour to wear. I'll never forget any of it.

“To my teammates, the staff, and everyone who makes this club what it is every single day, so special, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You helped me grow, on the pitch and off it.

“And to you, the fans. You took me in, you gave me a nickname, Steve. You made me feel at home. That's something no one will ever take away from me.

“I'm leaving, but I'II always be a supporter of this club. And I have one wish: to see you back in the Premier League, where Burnley belongs.

“Thank you for everything. See you soon. Steeeeeeve.”

Esteve made exactly 100 appearances for the Clarets, having signed from Montpellier in February 2024 - initially on loan before making the move permanent at the end of that season.

The defender only signed a fresh five-year deal last year, but following Burnley’s relegation back to the Championship, it was always expected he would move on this summer.

His departure leaves Burnley with Hjalmar Ekdal, Bashir Humphreys and Joe Worrall as their fit and available options at centre half, while Kyle Walker has also filled in there during pre-season.

Jordan Beyer also remains on their books but has been blighted by injuries, not making a competitive appearance since December 2023.

The Frenchman becomes the latest player to leave following last season’s relegation from the Premier League, following in the footsteps of Quilindschy Hartman, Lesley Ugochukwu, Jaidon Anthony and Loum Tchaouna.

Martin Dubravka and Vaclav Hladky both departed at the end of their contracts, while Axel Tuanzebe and Ashley Barnes are now officially free agents.