In a surprising development, FC Barcelona is now reportedly open to the idea of transferring promising right-back HĂ©ctor Fort this summer, despite earlier indications that he could play a significant role in Hansi Flick’s new project. According to journalist Ivan San Antonio, the young defender’s future at the club has taken a sharp turn, driven not only by tactical reshuffling but also by financial considerations.

Fort, who has long been regarded as one of La Masia’s most disciplined and technically gifted full-backs, had entered preseason with the belief that he would finally be given the opportunity to cement his place in the senior squad. With Flick’s appointment as head coach, many within the club viewed it as a clean slate—a chance for emerging talents to prove themselves in a system focused on energy, structure, and youth integration.

However, despite his impressive performances in limited first-team appearances last season, Fort now finds himself slipping down the pecking order. Hansi Flick has reportedly prioritized more experienced options at right-back, with Jules KoundĂ© currently leading the line and Èric Garcia—who was initially expected to leave—now also in contention for that role.

This shift has significantly impacted Fort’s standing within the squad. While his professionalism and work ethic remain unquestioned, the competition for defensive positions under Flick is fierce, and squad depth in those areas has forced the club to make some difficult decisions.

One of the key factors behind this change appears to be economic. Barcelona’s financial situation, though improving, still requires careful balancing. The sale of a young, homegrown player like HĂ©ctor Fort, who has considerable market value and low amortization cost, represents a smart financial move—especially if the club can secure a favorable transfer fee with future sell-on clauses or buyback options.

Several European clubs have already shown concrete interest in signing Fort. Scouts from Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands have been monitoring his development closely, with many convinced that he has the talent to thrive in one of Europe’s top five leagues. His defensive intelligence, technical polish, and ability to operate both in defensive and inverted full-back roles make him a versatile and valuable asset.

Fort himself is said to be disappointed but realistic about the situation. Sources close to the player indicate that while he was hoping to win Flick’s trust during preseason, he understands that at this point in his career, regular first-team football is essential for his development. Should a serious offer come in from a club offering both minutes and a competitive environment, he is open to making the leap.

Barcelona, on the other hand, is reportedly working to ensure that any potential transfer includes protective clauses—such as a buyback option or right of first refusal—acknowledging Fort’s potential to evolve into a top-tier full-back in the coming years. The club has learned from past mistakes with academy talents who’ve flourished after leaving too soon.

As Flick continues to reshape the squad for the upcoming season, HĂ©ctor Fort’s departure, should it happen, would be seen as a necessary sacrifice in the larger context of the team’s financial and tactical restructuring. Still, the decision would be met with regret by many supporters who had hoped to see another La Masia product become a core figure in the club’s future.

With the transfer window still open and interest steadily rising, the coming days and weeks could be decisive. Whether Fort remains in Blaugrana or begins a new journey elsewhere, his exit would mark the end of a short but meaningful chapter in Barcelona’s youth development story—and potentially, the beginning of a promising career abroad.

For now, Barça fans watch and wait, as one of their academy’s quiet gems faces an uncertain but opportunity-filled future

By Enoch

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