Report: Fonte allowed to leave Southampton after rejecting new contract

Jose Fonte could be on the move in January.

The Portuguese defender has been allowed to pursue other opportunities during the transfer window after he rejected an improved contract to remain with Southampton, Ed Aarons of the Guardian reports.

However, the south coast club will be unwilling to listen to offers unless interested teams submit bids higher than €6 million, according to Portuguese outlet Maisfutebol.

Aarons adds that Fonte had attracted several offers last summer following his impressive performance during Portugal's Euro 2016-winning performance, but Southampton rejected various offers for the 32-year-old, including a bid from Everton believed to be worth €9 million.

Manchester United was reportedly another interested suitor last summer as the club attempted to improve its back line. Manager Jose Mourinho tried to lure him away from St Mary's Stadium last summer, and could return to negotiating table with a new offer for Fonte - who also happens to employ the same agent as the Portuguese gaffer.

The Red Devils are also said to be interested in signing Victor Lindelof, 22, from Benfica

Fonte's been with the Saints since 2010 after completing a transfer from Crystal Palace.