Burnley identify Championship defender as Maxime Esteve replacement

Recently relegated Burnley look set to lose star defender Maxime Esteve this summer, as Premier League clubs circle for the 23-year-old.

The young Frenchman has been one of the shining lights in an otherwise dismal season, as the club finished 19th and suffered an immediate return to the Championship.

Esteve's potential has caught the attention of several Premier League heavyweights, with Liverpool and Chelsea both linked with moves.

With the 23-year-old set to leave Turf Moor this summer, Burnley are moving quickly to replace him, and have reportedly already identified the man they want to bring in.

Burnley target Middlesbrough captain Dael Fry

Ahead of their return to the second tier, Burnley appear to have prioritised Championship experience in their quest for an Esteve replacement, and that search has led them to Middlesbrough skipper Dael Fry.

The 27-year-old is heavily experienced at the level, notching up 273 appearances across a 12 year spell with the Boro, however his contract expires this summer and a Riverside exit has been touted.

Middlesbrough are reportedly still keen to tie their captain down to an extended deal, but TEAMtalk claim that Burnley are now confident of striking a deal for Fry.

Burnley are sure to net a healthy profit for the outgoing Esteve and signing Fry on a free transfer would represent a wily piece of transfer business for the Clarets.

The move would surely come as a bitter blow for Middlesbrough however, the club lost in the play-off final last month and will be targeting promotion in the upcoming campaign - something that would prove more difficult if their captain departed for a Championship rival.