Merseyside rivals Everton and Liverpool have both registered interest in Barcelona’s 20-year-old full-back Hector Fort, according to SPORT.
The La Masia graduate broke into Barcelona’s first team in 2023, providing cover at both right-back and left-back.
Fort spent last season on loan at Elche, recording three goals and two assists in 17 appearances. After his return, Barcelona gave the young Spaniard permission to find a new club, expressing a preference for a permanent transfer rather than another loan.
For Liverpool, Fort represents a long-term opportunity to strengthen their full-back options. The Reds’ signing of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold has not had the desired impact, with Dominik Szoboszlai filling in at times last season.
Fort’s low-risk profile and versatility make him an appealing squad option capable of covering multiple defensive roles.
Meanwhile, Everton have emerged as serious contenders for Fort’s signature. The Toffees are seeking a long-term replacement for Seamus Coleman, who recently ended his Merseyside tenure.
Everton’s pitch centres on offering the young defender a clear pathway to regular Premier League football, a factor that could prove decisive as Fort seeks first-team stability.
In addition to Fort, Everton have also been linked with Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Djed Spence, who is, however, set to join Serie A champions Inter Milan.
Everton and Liverpool are not alone in monitoring Fort, with Fulham and Borussia Dortmund also keeping an eye on the defender, as Barcelona work to finalise his departure.
Barcelona’s willingness to sell Fort means a deal could progress quickly if suitable financial terms are offered.
Whether Fort prioritises immediate starts at Hill Dickinson Stadium or the prospect of slowly establishing himself as a regular at Anfield, a Premier League move looks a strong possibility for the defender.