Hector Fort’s future could take a significant turn before the transfer window closes, with Borussia Dortmund stepping up their search for a right-back and placing the Barcelona youngster high on their shortlist.
As reported before, Fort is currently the player who interests Dortmund the most, and more importantly, contact has already taken place between the German club and Barcelona to discuss a possible deal.
However, the only issue that continues to hinder the operation is the formula of the transfer.
Accoridng to SPORT, the Bundesliga side has around €10 million available for a new right-back, but their preference is to avoid spending heavily.
Hence, a loan or another financially manageable arrangement is the route Dortmund would rather explore.
Dortmund have made Hector Fort their preferred option
It has been suggested that Dortmund are studying several possibilities for the right-back position, but Fort has emerged as the standout candidate in their search.
Borussia Dortmund want to sign Hector Fort. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The 20-year-old returned to Barcelona this summer following a loan spell at Elche last season.
Now, with his path at Barça still uncertain, the prospect of joining one of Germany’s biggest clubs could offer him another important opportunity.
It is important to mention that Fort would also welcome a move to Dortmund, giving the German side encouragement as they continue to assess the operation.
Direct discussions between Barcelona and Dortmund have already taken place, although no final decision has been made.
For Barcelona, the interest comes at an interesting moment, as Fort is at an age where regular first-team football is crucial, and another season with limited minutes could do little for his development.
Dortmund, meanwhile, have a clear sporting need. They want a right-back and see the Barcelona defender as a player capable of filling that gap.
Fort will leave Barcelona this summer. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
The interest, therefore, is genuine on both sides. The negotiations will come down to finding a structure that works financially.
Loan move or cheap deal could decide the operation
Dortmund’s available budget is around €10 million, but that does not mean they intend to spend the full amount on Fort.
As SPORT explains, the club’s sporting management is looking closely at cheaper alternatives and would prefer a loan if possible.
They are also considering whether further player sales could create additional funds before the market closes, leaving several possible routes open.
A straightforward permanent transfer would be one option, but Dortmund’s current approach points towards a lower-cost solution.
Ultimately, a loan with an option or obligation to buy could also become part of the discussion if Barcelona are open to such an arrangement.