Unites States international Sergino Dest has emerged as one of the world’s best young wing-backs, ever since coming through Ajax’s famed youth ranks. The Dutch-born defender moved to Barcelona in 2020 on a five-year contract, going on register 60 plus appearances for the Blaugrana so far. He has been key for the Spanish giants, although earlier there were reports of a fallout between him and new coach Xavi Hernandez.
According to latest reports (via Calciomercato), the 21-year-old talent is highly regarded by Giallorossi sporting director Tiago Pinto, who has long been scouting for a right-back join Jose Mourinho’s squad.
Versatile new acquisition in the winter transfer window from Arsenal, Ainsley Maitland-Niles has reportedly not satisfied Mourinho’s need for a full-back, as he has largely been utilized as a midfielder on either flank. Whereas, Rick Karsdorp has witnessed a drop in form as compared to the start of the season, making him a likely candidate to see the exit door in the summer.
Dest has transfermarkt value around the €20m mark, making him an affordable prospect for any interested team, including French giants Monaco.
It remains to be seen how Barcelona react to reports linking Dest to an exit from Camp Nou, especially after Xavi’s recent positive comments on the youngster’s progress after the 4-1 victory over Valencia in La Liga.