TEAMtalk reports that 20-year-old Barcelona defender Hector Fort has received the green light to search for a new club. Following a season spent on loan at Elche, the Catalan side is inclined to pursue a permanent sale of their academy graduate to bolster their transfer funds.
Fort's versatility, allowing him to cover the right-back position as well as various other defensive roles, has caught the eye of several clubs across Europe.
Main contenders for the player
- Everton and Fulham: Both English clubs are keen on acquiring the defender on a permanent basis and are willing to satisfy Barcelona's desire to complete a full transfer.
- Inter: The Milan side is closely monitoring the situation surrounding the Spaniard.
- Liverpool: The Merseysiders have long had an admiration for Fort, but with the recent loan signing of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona, their further pursuit of Hector remains in question.
- Racing Santander: The Spanish club has made an official inquiry for a direct loan, yet this option is seen as secondary for the Blaugrana.
Everton's defensive reconstruction
The search for a right-back is a priority for Everton's coaching staff. In addition to their interest in Fort, the Toffees are also engaged in negotiations for the transfer of Alistair Johnston from Celtic.
Employing two new players in this position could lead to the departure of Scottish defender Patterson, who is open to new challenges.
