Fabrizio Romano: Aston Villa in talks to sign star from La Liga giants after he clashed with manager
Aston Villa Eye Late Swoop for Barcelona Youngster Hector Fort Amid Transfer Deadline Push
Aston Villa are weighing up a late move for highly-rated Barcelona defender Hector Fort, according to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano.
The Midlands club have reportedly opened lines of communication with the Spanish giants to gather information on the 19-year-old’s availability. Fort’s future at the Nou Camp has come under the spotlight in recent days following claims of a fallout with head coach Hansi Flick. With the summer transfer deadline of September 1 fast approaching, the teenager could be on the move as part of Barca’s squad reshuffle.
Sources suggest that initial discussions between the two clubs are already underway. Villa are bracing themselves for a hectic final stretch of the transfer window as player departures free up space and funds for reinforcements.
The club has already reached an agreement with Newcastle United for the £40 million sale of midfielder Jacob Ramsey. Meanwhile, winger Leon Bailey is in advanced negotiations over a season-long loan switch to AS Roma. These exits are expected to provide Villa with the financial flexibility to pursue new targets.
Fort’s Rise and Barcelona’s Dilemma
Romano revealed via X that Villa’s interest in Fort has been formalised with direct contact. Fort burst onto the senior scene at Barcelona in December 2023, making his debut under Flick. Over the course of last season, he racked up 20 appearances across all competitions, earning five starts.
Praised as an “excellent” young talent, Fort mainly operated as understudy to first-choice right-back Jules Kounde. However, Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles — particularly their difficulty in registering new signings ahead of the new campaign — have forced the club to consider parting ways with several first-team players, including promising academy graduates like Fort.
Villa’s Defensive Outlook
If successful, this wouldn’t be Villa’s first foray into the Spanish market for a right-back. In January, the club snapped up Andres Garcia from Levante on a long-term deal. The 22-year-old settled quickly, making 10 appearances in his first half-season at Villa Park, including five Premier League starts.
Fort’s arrival would add further depth and youthful energy to Unai Emery’s defensive options, potentially creating healthy competition for places.
Quiet Summer, Busy Ending?
For much of the summer, Villa’s transfer activity has been understated. Prior to this late push, the only notable senior signings had been veteran goalkeeper Marco Bizot and striker Evann Guessand. But with the window entering its final stages, Emery’s side appear ready to step up their recruitment drive.
Villa will open their Premier League campaign with a high-profile home fixture against Newcastle United on Saturday — a match that could also mark the beginning of a transformative final two weeks in the transfer market for the club.