Barcelona want academy talent’s exit completed soon as Everton lead transfer race

Barcelona want academy talent’s exit completed soon as Everton lead transfer race Barcelona and Hector Fort are both working towards a separation, with the young full-back expected to leave the club before the transfer window closes. According to SPORT , Fort has accepted that his future does not lie at Barcelona this season.  The 20-year-old returned to the club after a productive loan spell at Elche, hoping to change Hansi Flick’s mind during pre-season, but the manager’s stance has remained unchanged. As a result, Barcelona are now exploring a permanent transfer for the La Masia graduate.  On that note, interest in Fort is growing, with Inter Milan and several Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.  As such, the likes of Everton, Fulham and Liverpool have all been linked with the defender, although Everton are currently viewed as the strongest option. Fort accepts Barcelona departure Fort’s successful spell at Elche did little to change the situation at Barcelona. Hector Fort is set to leave Barcelona this summer. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images) The defender entered pre-season determined to earn a place in Flick’s plans, particularly given his strong connection with the club.  However, the opportunities he hoped for have not materialised, and another departure now appears to be the most likely outcome. It is said that Elche supporters would welcome Fort back after his previous loan, but the possibility of a return has been played down by the club.  Notably, general director Pedro Schinocca has dismissed the speculation as merely “rumours”. That has opened the door for other interested sides. Inter Milan are among the clubs following the situation, while England has emerged as another major destination, where Everton, Fulham and Liverpool have all shown interest in the Barcelona defender, according to the report. Everton could be Hector Fort’s likely destination. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) At present, Everton appear to be in the strongest position, as they offer the most attractive proposal for Barcelona and the player, making them the team to watch as talks develop. Barcelona prefer permanent transfer but want future control Barcelona’s approach to Hector Fort’s departure differs from the deal that took him to Elche last season. The full-back joined Elche on loan without a purchase option, allowing him to gain regular experience before returning to Barcelona. This time, however, the club are reportedly more open to a permanent sale. Fort remains under contract with Barcelona until 2029, so the Blaugrana are not under immediate pressure to accept an unsuitable offer. Their preference is to complete a transfer while retaining a significant percentage of the player’s future rights.  Barcelona could also look to include a substantial sell-on clause, ensuring they benefit financially if Fort develops further and earns a major move later in his career.