Hector Fort Completes Loan Move From Barcelona To Elche

Young Barcelona defender Hector Fort has agreed to join Elche on loan for the rest of the 2025-26 season. The deal does not include a buy option, meaning Fort is expected to return to Barcelona in June 2026.

THE LOAN MOVE EXPLAINED

Fort, just 19 years old, came up through Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy. He made his first-team debut under former coach Xavi in December 2023 but has struggled for regular playing time under the current manager, Hansi Flick. With competition for the right-back spot intense—Eric García has been preferred recently due to injuries elsewhere in the squad—Barcelona decided a loan was best for Fort’s development. Elche, newly promoted to La Liga, secured Fort’s signature despite interest from Mallorca and Everton. The move was completed on transfer deadline day, following a similar loan switch for Barça goalkeeper Iñaki Peña. Fort will be gaining valuable experience this season as he continues to develop his skills.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR BOTH CLUBS

Elche gained promotion to La Liga last season and faces a challenging campaign ahead. They will need every reinforcement to avoid relegation. Fort brings fresh energy to Elche’s defense, having gained valuable experience training and playing alongside Barcelona’s senior squad. Meanwhile, Barcelona remains focused on battling at the top of the league—they’re currently fighting at the top of La Liga this season, just two points behind leaders Real Madrid and Athletic Club, and level on points with Villarreal. By loaning out Fort, Barcelona frees up squad space and ensures their young talent keeps developing at the highest level. Fort will return to Barcelona with more La Liga minutes under his belt, still under contract until 2029.

WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT

Fort will join Elche immediately after representing Spain at the U-20 World Cup. Elche’s first match after the loan will be against Sevilla, a key rival in the relegation battle. Elche currently sit in 7th place, with five points from three matches. Barcelona’s next fixture is against Valencia, where they trail Real Madrid by two points and sit level on points with Villarreal but behind on goal difference. All eyes will be on Fort to see if he can secure a regular starting role for Elche and help them survive in Spain’s top flight. His progress will also be closely watched in Barcelona as they plan their future defensive line.