Everton lead Héctor Fort race as Barcelona open door to defender’s summer exit

Everton have reportedly moved into pole position to sign Barcelona defender Héctor Fort, with Liverpool and Fulham also monitoring the Spain Under-20 international before the transfer window closes.

The 20-year-old had hoped to establish himself at Camp Nou, but Barcelona have now decided to part ways with the academy graduate, opening the door for a move to the Premier League this summer.

According to Sport, Everton, Liverpool and Fulham have all expressed interest in Fort, but David Moyes' side are currently considered the favourites to secure his signature.

Inter Milan had also identified the right-back as a potential target, but the Serie A club have instead reached an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur for Djed Spence. That development has effectively left the three Premier League clubs competing for Fort's services.

The report adds that Everton could present the most attractive offer, although no further details are provided as to why the Toffees are leading the race.

Fort came through Barcelona's famous La Masia academy and has made 30 first-team appearances for the Catalan club.

Last season, he spent time on loan at Elche, where he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter.

Despite the defender's desire to remain at Barcelona, the club's stance has changed. Head coach Hansi Flick has reportedly excluded Fort from his plans, with the youngster now training separately alongside other players expected to leave before the transfer window closes.

Having initially hoped to fight for his place, the defender has now accepted that a summer departure is his most realistic option.

Barcelona's preference is to complete a permanent sale while retaining a significant sell-on clause, allowing the club to benefit from any future transfer.

That approach could appeal to Premier League clubs looking to sign one of Spain's promising young full-backs without committing to an excessively high transfer fee.

For Everton, Fort would represent another youthful addition with long-term potential, while Liverpool and Fulham remain in the picture should negotiations change direction. However, no formal offer has yet been reported from any of the interested clubs.

Fort is expected to leave Barcelona before the transfer window closes, with Everton currently appearing best placed to complete a deal. The next step will be whether the Toffees formalise their interest with an official offer, while Liverpool and Fulham could still enter the race if negotiations slow. Barcelona's willingness to sell means developments could arrive quickly over the coming days.

Would Héctor Fort be a smart signing for Everton, or should Liverpool or Fulham make a stronger push for the Barcelona defender?