The season looks complicated for Héctor Fort at Barça. The right-back, who came up through La Masia, starts with a secondary role in Flick's plans. Jules Koundé and Eric García are ahead of him.
Although the club keeps a good opinion about his potential, the reality is that his chances for minutes in the first team will be very limited. The direct competition with two experienced footballers with international careers leaves Fort with little room.
Barça recommends that he leave on loan
Given this scenario, Barça has advised Héctor Fort to look for a loan. The goal is for him to gain experience and minutes in a team that can offer him continuity, something that at Barça seems difficult to guarantee him in the short term. According to "e-Notícies," the academy player has reportedly finally accepted the idea of leaving on loan.
The loan would allow the player to stay linked to Barça and, at the same time, show his qualities in a competitive environment. For the club, it would also be an opportunity to see how he develops in a different context.
Aston Villa's interest
Amid the talks about his loan, an unexpected twist has emerged in the market. Several sources indicate that Unai Emery's Aston Villa has put a €15 million ($15 million) offer on the table for the right-back. The English team is looking to strengthen its defense for a season in which it will combine the demands of the Premier League with European competitions.
Emery is known for betting on young players with potential and believes that Fort could adapt well to his system. The proposal from the Birmingham club also represents an important financial opportunity for Barça.
Between the financial need and the player's will
Barça, according to leaks, would be open to accepting a sale like the one proposed by Aston Villa. It would not only bring in €15 million ($15 million) to ease the accounts, but it would also help free up salary space.
However, the main obstacle is Héctor's own stance. The academy player doesn't want to sever ties with the club of his life and prefers the option of a loan that would allow him to return. The negotiation, therefore, is at a point between the club's financial needs and the player's desire to remain linked to Barça, even if only through a loan.