Hector Fort has accepted that he may leave Barcelona this summer, with clubs in both Italy and England reportedly monitoring the full-back.
The 19-year-old’s prospects have not improved during pre-season, with Barcelona manager Flick’s view of the La Masia academy graduate apparently unchanged. Fort, a Barcelona supporter since childhood, is keen to secure a greater role, but his expected departure is not the result of him pushing for a transfer.
Barcelona and the player both want the situation resolved quickly, with the major competitions set to begin and the uncertainty proving uncomfortable for all involved. The club is expected to provide individual training for players who are waiting to complete moves, in an attempt to avoid a repeat of the situation involving Balde.
Balde previously trained alone at Barcelona’s discretion before suffering a serious knee injury. That training arrangement also caused controversy at the time.
Fort’s priority is now to join a club where he can play regularly and demonstrate his ability. He and his representatives are understood to be pleased with his progress, while his loan spell at Elche last season was regarded as a positive step in his development.
Elche supporters would welcome Fort’s return, although the club’s general manager Pedro Schnoka dismissed reports of a possible move as merely “rumors.”
Interest in the defender extends beyond La Liga, with a number of sides in Italy and England said to be considering a move. Internazionale are searching for a right-back and have England international Spence as their preferred target.
The Nerazzurri are reportedly preparing a significant offer for Tottenham for Spence, with the fee potentially rising to 30m euros. Should that deal fail to materialise, Fort is expected to become Internazionale’s leading alternative.
In England, Everton, Fulham and Liverpool have all been linked with the Barcelona academy product. Everton could offer the most appealing outcome for Barcelona and the player, although Fort’s own decision will also play an important part in determining where he goes.
Fort remains under contract at Barcelona until 2029. He spent last season on loan at Elche, with no option to buy included in the agreement.
Barcelona’s sporting department has now altered its approach to the player’s future. Rather than arranging another loan, the club prefers to complete a permanent sale while retaining a substantial percentage of any future earnings and a share of a subsequent transfer fee.
The club is therefore seeking an early resolution, both to clarify its squad plans and to give Fort the opportunity to settle at his next club before the new campaign gets fully under way.
