Several clubs are monitoring the 20-year-old’s situation, including Liverpool.
Liverpool’s need for further defensive options continues to be an area of interest as the club assesses their squad ahead of the new season.
The situation at right-back is particularly worrying, with Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley currently sidelined through injury, while Jeremie Frimpong has struggled to maintain a consistent run of fitness since his arrival at the club last summer.
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As a result, the Reds have been linked with a number of young players who could offer both immediate depth and long-term potential.
One name to have emerged as a potential option is currently attracting significant interest from clubs across Europe.
Liverpool are understood to be among those monitoring the situation, but they are not currently leading the race for the defender’s signature.
According to SPORT, Everton have moved ahead of Liverpool and Fulham in the race for Barcelona defender Hector Fort, while Borussia Dortmund are also understood to be interested.
Contacts surrounding the player have intensified in recent days, with several clubs continuing to make offers as they look to take advantage of his availability this summer.
Barcelona are now open to his departure after he was left out of Hansi Flick’s plans for the new season.
The 20-year-old is regarded as a player with significant potential and has attracted attention because of his technical ability and versatility.
SPORT reports that contact from Everton has been “very intense” in recent days, with offers continuing to arrive for the defender.
His age, potential and footballing qualities are believed to have made him an attractive proposition for several clubs looking to secure a young player with room to develop.
Barcelona are prepared to sell Fort this summer, although they are looking to protect their long-term interests as part of any agreement.
The Catalan club want to retain a percentage of his future rights, while also securing a sell-on clause that would allow them to benefit financially from any subsequent move.
Everton’s interest in Fort remains very much alive and, at present, they appear to have gained an advantage over their rivals in the race.
However, there is currently no indication of Fort’s preferred destination. With Barcelona keen to find a solution and multiple clubs continuing to show interest, the situation could develop further as the summer transfer window progresses.