Barcelona academy starlet’s renewal negotiations still in the ‘initial phase’

Earlier today, FC Barcelona announced the contract renewal of teenage defensive prodigy Pau Cubarsi until the summer of 2027.

As part of the new deal, the 17-year-old centre-back will also receive improved wages and his release clause amount has now risen to €500 million.

With the futures of Gavi, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Alejandro Balde all secured, the contract extension of Cubarsi is another step in the direction of Barça shielding the long-term core of the team.

With Cubarsi’s renewal now done, the Catalans are working to secure the futures of a few more young talents, one of whom happens to be Hector Fort.

Negotiations in the initial phase

Providing an update on the contract situation of Fort, SPORT reports that the negotiations for the 17-year-old defender’s renewal are still in the initial phase.

Much like Cubarsi, Fort has enjoyed his breakthrough season in 2023/24 and is already seen as a long-term first-team star.

The 17-year-old versatile prospect has proven himself capable of playing both at right-back and left-back and appears set to have a first-team spot for next season.

The fact that he remains in the senior setup’s dynamics at a point when Barça Atletic are battling for promotion indicates as much.

Hector Fort next in line to renew? (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA/AFP via Getty Images)

Xavi’s continuity could guarantee Fort’s renewal

As has been reported previously, Xavi’s continuity as the manager of Barcelona is likely to guarantee Fort’s renewal.

With the 44-year-old club legend at the helm, the teenage full-back knows that he will get regular opportunities in the senior setup next season and can flourish.

Only last week, we reported that Deco had met with Fort’s agent to discuss the matter of his new deal and even though things are in the early stages, it is expected that the progress will be smooth.