Leipzig signs French defender Maxime Estève from Burnley on a deal to 2031

LEIPZIG, Germany (AP) — Leipzig signed French defender Maxime Estève from relegated Premier League side Burnley on Friday.

The 24-year-old Estève signed a contract to 2031 and will wear the No. 3 jersey, the Bundesliga club announced.

Kicker magazine said Leipzig was paying 25 million euros ($28.5 million) for the center back, a fee that could rise with bonuses if certain conditions are met.

“He has many of the qualities we were looking for in this position – height, athleticism, a strong left foot, confidence in possession and the ability to step out and defend proactively,” Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer said. “Maxime is positive in the way he plays, a tough tackler, vocal and brings a huge amount of energy to the pitch. He is also a natural leader.”

Other reinforcements

Estève is the first direct signing for the energy-drink manufacturer-backed club since Martin Demichelis was appointed coach as the fired Ole Werner ’s replacement.

Midfielder Brajan Gruda is staying with Leipzig for another season on loan from Brighton with the option of making the move permanent for a reported fee of 30 million euros ($34 million).

Leipzig had already announced the signing of midfielder Rocco Reitz from Bundesliga rival Borussia Mönchengladbach in March.

Leipzig’s Diomande

Ivory Coast teenager Yan Diomande said last month he expects to leave Leipzig, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly his most likely destination.

Schäfer has said the 19-year-old Diomande will play next season at Leipzig.

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