When Barcelona want deal done as Everton lead Liverpool for Hector Fort transfer

Everton are at the front of the queue to sign Barcelona right-back Hector Fort amid a new update out of Spain.

Fort has played 30 times for Barca since emerging through their famed La Masia academy in 2023.

Still aged just 20, he also made 17 appearances on loan at fellow LaLiga side Elche last season.

However, the Spain Under-20s international's future looks set to be away from Camp Nou.

Everton were credited with an interest in Fort earlier this month, having also been linked in past transfer windows.

And it may well be that the youngster is the player David Moyes' side turn to in their desperate search for a new right-back.

Barcelona open to Hector Fort sale as Everton lurk

Much has been reported on Everton's search for a new right-back - not just this summer but across a number of windows now.

It has almost reached comical levels, in fact, as countless options emerge before things go quiet.

But a new update via German Bona for Spanish outlet Sport gives hope that may be about to change.

Everton are one of five teams credited with an interest in Fort, along with fierce rivals Liverpool, plus Inter Milan, Fulham and former loan club Elche.

What is particularly exciting is that Everton are said to be seen as the strongest option right now.

Barca are said to prefer a permanent deal and they want an exit "completed soon".

That will be music to the ears of Everton fans if Fort is indeed the man the Toffees want to bring in.

What type of full-back is Everton target Fort?

First and foremost, Everton will have more than enough footage of Fort to watch over even if he is still just 20 years old.

Forty-seven senior appearances at a high level is pretty impressive for a player so young.

Fort started half of the 14 games he played in the Spanish top flight last season, scoring twice and assisting a couple more.

That alone will get Everton fans excited, given they are used to watching more reserved players at right-back - namely Jake O'Brien.

But it does lead to the question of whether Moyes would really be that keen to sign an attack-minded full-back?

If fans get their wish, this would be a no-brainer. Especially when considering he is available for below eight figures.

Either way, a new right-back is still needed and Everton now have just over a week to find one before the season starts.