La Liga giants Barcelona have this afternoon announced the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax.
Barca making moves
The need for right-back reinforcements had of course become something of a pressing concern at the Camp Nou of late.
The Blaugrana recently opted to part with first-choice Nelson Semedo, who made the move to the Premier League with Wolves in a big-money deal.
This left just Sergi Roberto as a senior option for Ronald Koeman on the right-side of the new Barca boss’ back-four, with many of the opinion that the Spaniard is actually better utilised in a midfield role, anyway.
As such, the last couple of weeks had seen the Catalans persistently linked with one player in particular – Sergino Dest.
“I think it’s better to play for Barcelona.” 🗣
– Sergino Dest in October 2019, when asked if he’d rather play for Real Madrid or Barcelona. pic.twitter.com/H7YCbcPpv8
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) September 27, 2020
United States international Dest, despite his tender years, began to establish himself as a consistent contributor at the The Johan Cruyff Arena last season, racking up 20 Eredivisie appearances.
And, though question marks remain over his defensive capabilities, the 19-year-old’s attacking traits are of the highest standard.
In turn, speculation had long suggested that two of European football’s heavyweights, Bayern Munich and Barca, had added Dest to their respective shopping lists.
And, as outlined above, it is the latter who have today won the race for his services.
In a post across the club’s social media platforms a short time ago, Barcelona confirmed that the gifted teen has put pen to paper on a 5-year deal at the club.
The Blaugrana forked over a fee of €21 million (plus a further 5 million in potential bonuses) to secure Dest’s signature:
Agreement with Ajax for transfer of @sergino_dest!#DE2TCuler
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 1, 2020
The stopper himself has since also taken to Twitter, to post the following message to Ajax:
Just a boy from Almere Stad who grew up with a dream of playing for Ajax. I’m blessed to have represented this club for the last 9 years. Thank you to everyone at Ajax, and a special mention to the fans, you will always hold a special place in my heart. 🙏🏼 @AFCAjax ❌❌❌ pic.twitter.com/ScV5wkhe1X
— Sergiño Dest (@sergino_dest) October 1, 2020
Celta Vigo vs Barcelona
Fresh off the back of securing the latest addition to the club’s squad, Barcelona are set to return to action tonight.
Ronald Koeman’s men will make the trip to Celta Vigo for a La Liga clash, hoping to build on their 4-0 opening day win over Villarreal.
Check out how to watch the Balaidos clash here.
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La Liga giants Barcelona have this afternoon announced the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax. Barca making moves The need for right-back reinforcements had of course become something of a pressing concern at the Camp Nou of late. The Blaugrana recently opted to part with first-choice Nelson Semedo, who made the move to the PremierFootball (soccer) greatest goals and highlights | 101 Great Goals – Feed