Barcelona have confirmed that young defender Hector Fort will join La Liga side Elche on a season-long loan. The deal does not include an option for Elche to make the transfer permanent.
Hector Fort Seeks Playing Time with Season-Long Loan to Elche
The 19-year-old right-back will now have the opportunity to compete for regular playing time under Elche manager Eder Sarabia, a former Barcelona assistant.
Sarabia’s team has made a solid start to life back in the top flight, earning five points from their first three matches, including impressive draws against Real Betis and Atletico Madrid.
Fort’s move provides a crucial chance for the teenager to reignite his development after a limited role under Barcelona coach Hansi Flick last season.
Despite making 20 appearances, Fort managed just five starts and 638 total minutes on the pitch. His frustration over a lack of minutes became public after one match, leading to a minor disagreement with the manager.
The path to Elche opened after a proposed loan to Real Mallorca fell through. Premier League sides West Ham United and Everton had also reportedly asked about Fort’s availability in recent weeks.
At Elche, Fort will join Barcelona teammate Inaki Pena and will look to challenge Alvaro Nunez for the right wing-back position in Sarabia’s preferred three-at-the-back system.
Fort’s versatility, having also played on the left, could aid his quest for minutes.
His departure also directly benefits Barcelona’s squad planning. The salary space created by his loan move allows the club to formally register young talent Marc Bernal with the first team.
