Tello Rejects Everton and Liverpool to Join Porto on Loan

Barcelona winger Cristian Tello will join Porto on loan next season, according to reports.

The 22-year-old played a peripheral role at the Catalan club last campaign as his progression has been slowed by the presence of stars such as Neymar, Lionel Messi, Pedro, Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez – and after a season without silverware, he was expected to be part of a huge clear-out at the Camp Nou.

Last week it was reported that the Spanish international was very close to reaching an agreement with Porto.

And, according to Spanish newspaper AS, Porto have already reached an agreement with Barca for the loan of Tello to the Portuguese side to strengthen their forwards – it is thought that the player was who decided to go out on loan, to see how the season goes, even though Porto wanted to take ownership of him.

Porto manager Julen Lopetegui worked with Tello in the Spanish Under-21s, and his perseverance has been the decisive factor – AS also claims that the Spaniard boss is keeping close tabs on Osasuna goalkeeper Andres Fernandez.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez is said to have approached both Barcelona and Tello himself regarding a summer move, and it was reported that the Toffees could take advantage of their good relationship with Camp Nou officials to outbid Liverpool for his signature.

Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers is also a long-term admirer of the youngster, having made approaches in the last two transfer windows – and Atletico Madrid are also reportedly interested in the player.

Tello admitted his frustration at Barca last season, saying: "If I do not play as much as I would like, I will think about leaving.

"To take that step will be pretty difficult, but I believe each person must evaluate their own role. As the years pass by, you want your role to change and to have more minutes."