Southampton open to offers for Jose Fonte

Southampton are reportedly ready to sell Portugal international defender Jose Fonte next month, according to The Telegraph.

The Premier League side, who head into Christmas seventh in the English top-flight standings following Sunday’s 3-1 victory against AFC Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, are expected to receive interest in their centre-half during the forthcoming January transfer window.

The 32-year-old, who has 20 international caps for his country and starred for Portugal as they won Euro 2016 earlier this summer, has made 17 appearances in all competitions for The Saints so far this season.

Fonte, who arrived at St Mary’s Stadium back in January 2010 following his move from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, was left on the bench by Southampton boss Claude Puel during their weekend win at Bournemouth.

The report suggests that the club will consider bids for their captain, who is attracting interest from Manchester United and Everton, after refusing to put pen to paper on an improved contract earlier this year.