Manchester United target Sergino Dest ‘would be good’ for Erik ten Hag’s ongoing revolution, according to journalist Dean Jones.
Ten Hag’s era got off to the worst possible start over the weekend as the Red Devils slumped to a 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Brighton, highlighting the need to go back into the transfer market.
What is the latest news involving Dest?
Spanish outlet Sport have reported that United have already made contact with Barcelona over the possible purchase of Dest as they look to strengthen their backline.
It’s claimed that the Catalan giants would demand €20 million (£16.8m) for the USA international, who faces an uncertain future under manager Xavi.
Dest has struggled to hold down a regular spot in Barca’s starting lineup since making the switch from Ajax back in 2020, featuring from the off in just 17 La Liga fixtures last term.
Chelsea’s Cesar Azpilicueta was reportedly being lined up as the 21-year-old’s replacement at Camp Nou, and it remains to be seen whether his decision to stay put impacts Dest’s immediate future.
What has Jones said about Dest?
Jones believes that Dest is eager to remain a Barcelona player this summer but reckons he could become a valuable asset for United if the club’s hierarchy are able to prise him away from his current employers.
He told GiveMeSport: “Ideally, Sergino Dest doesn't want to leave Barcelona, it was a massive move for him, and he wants to prove that he can make it, particularly as an American International. Playing on that stage is a really big deal.
“Xavi has always reassured him that he wants to help him improve and get to the level whereby he can be a success at Barca, so we'll have to see whether he sticks to his guns on that. But I think he would be good for United if they do manage to persuade Barca to sell.”
Would Dest be a good signing?
Dest is a player Ten Hag knows well from their time together at Ajax, with the youngster making 38 appearances under the Dutch tactician across all competitions.
And although the attack-minded right-back has been unable to string a consistent run of games together at Barca, his underlying numbers highlight his truly top-class potential.
As per FBref, Dest ranked in the 98th percentile for progressive carries and completed dribbles, 95th for touches in the attacking penalty area, 91st for non-penalty expected goals and the 86th for progressive passes received amongst fellow full-backs over the last year.
Dest could prove to an astute acquisition for United as they look to mould the squad in Ten Hag’s vision, therefore, allowing their new leader to implement his style of play quicker.