Jose Fonte Open to Move Back to Southampton on a Free Transfer
Southampton icon Jose Fonte is reportedly open to a move back to St Mary’s on a free transfer, according to talkSPORT. The 39-year-old veteran defender is currently a free agent after spending five successful years at French club Lille, where he made 196 appearances in all competitions.
Fonte’s time in France was fruitful, as he played a crucial role in helping Lille win the Ligue 1 title in 2021, their first top-flight championship in a decade. Now, the experienced centre-back is on the lookout for his next club and could potentially return to England to join the Saints, whom he previously played for between 2010 and 2017.
During his first spell with Southampton, Fonte was instrumental in the team’s success. He played a key role in helping the club achieve back-to-back promotions, securing their return to the Premier League. In addition to his defensive prowess, Fonte also contributed with 15 goals in 288 games, showcasing his versatility and attacking threat. His impressive performances earned him a regular spot in the Portuguese national team, and he was part of the squad that won Euro 2016.
Now, Fonte could be making a surprising return to Southampton, even though the club has recently been relegated. New manager Russell Martin is reportedly eager to add experience to his youthful team, and Fonte’s wealth of knowledge and leadership qualities could prove invaluable.
TalkSPORT’s chief football correspondent Alex Crook provided insights into the potential transfer on the White and Jordan show. Crook praised Fonte’s professionalism throughout his career, highlighting his fitness and recent departure from Lille on a free transfer. He also revealed that Fonte is open to returning to Southampton and helping them regain their Premier League status.
Crook believes that Fonte’s potential return could be a shrewd piece of business for Southampton, considering the team’s young and inexperienced squad. Fonte’s presence and guidance could provide stability and mentorship to the younger players, helping them develop and improve their performances on the pitch.
It’s worth noting that Fonte’s last English team was West Ham, whom he joined from Southampton in January 2017. However, his time at the London Stadium was underwhelming, and he was eventually sold to Chinese outfit Dalian Yifang for £5 million just a year later. Fonte’s stint in the Far East was short-lived, and he soon found himself back in Europe, where he managed to rediscover his form while playing for Lille.
Fonte’s potential return to Southampton would undoubtedly be a sentimental one for both the player and the fans. Having already established himself as a club legend during his previous spell, Fonte’s experience and leadership could prove vital in helping Southampton bounce back from relegation and secure a swift return to the Premier League.
As talks continue between Fonte and Southampton, fans eagerly await an official announcement regarding the potential reunion. If the deal goes through, it would mark a significant moment in Fonte’s career, as he returns to a club where he enjoyed immense success and left a lasting legacy.