As we enter the final week of the summer transfer window, Barcelona youngster Hector Fort faces an uncertain future at the club.
That’s because SPORT report that Barcelona are open to the possibility of him moving out on loan if they can sign the right-back before the market closes.
Sporting Gijon interested in Fort
The report adds that La Liga second division club Sporting Gijon are interested in signing Fort on loan from Barcelona, adding a new twist to the story.
The 18-year-old Fort recently signed a new long-term contract at Barca after his breakthrough season under manager Xavi Hernandez earlier this year.
Despite being forced into a tough situation due to an injury to Alejandro Balde, the teenage full-back has impressed.
But under new coach Hansi Flick, Voort has had an irregular pre-season due to discomfort and increased playing time for young players such as Gerard Martin and Alex Vale.
Hector Fort could be heading out on loan (Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
That, combined with the fact that Barcelona are working on signing a right-back, casts a shadow over Fort’s continuity.
Indeed, the Catalans appeared to have given up on signing Joao Cancelo but are keen to sign Marc Pubil on loan from UD Almeria.
With Jules Koundé being Barcelona’s first choice at right-back, Pubil’s arrival would take away more playing time from Fort, especially if Alex Valle also stays, after Valle played at right-back during pre-season.
A loan move for Fort therefore seems a definite possibility, especially if Barcelona are successful in signing either Pubil or Cancelo, in which scenario La Liga second division club Sporting Gijon would be happy to take on the 18-year-old for the remainder of the season.
While Foert is likely to receive ample playing time at Sporting, it may be better for both player and club if he seeks a club on loan in La Liga to gain valuable top-flight experience.