Transfer News: Chelsea interested in Barcelona defender Sergino Dest as Marcos Alonso talks continue
Chelsea are looking to sign Sergino Dest from Barcelona this summer. This is according to the Daily Mirror (h/t Express), who say that Manchester United are also interested in the right-back.
This news comes after Barcelona are closing on signing Marcos Alonso from Chelsea. The Spaniard had requested Thomas Tuchel to not select him for yesterday’s game and was granted his wish.
Alonso has been linked with a move to Barcelona since the start of the summer window and looks like he will leave. As such, Tuchel looks to have already identified his replacement in Dest.
Dest joined the Catalonia club in 2020 from Ajax. The 21-year-old has failed to impress Xavi and is not preferred by the coach so much. This is evident from the fact that he started only 17 league games for Barcelona last season.
The 21-year-old can play on either side of the defence and could serve as a back-up to both Reece James and Ben Chilwell. Given his attacking nature, he can also be deployed further up the pitch. Such versatility is something Tuchel looks for in his players, and Dest would make a fine signing for Chelsea.
Barcelona are seeking £17 million for the player. This could be a bargain buy for the Blues as Dest is just 21 years old, but still has ample playing experience. The fee is a sensible amount for a backup player and Tuchel will be aware of that.
Manchester United are also interested in the player, with new coach Erik ten Hag looking to reunite with his former right-back. Chelsea could be said to have an advantage over their rivals as they can offer Champions League football. But if that will be enough to land the player is something only time will tell.
A young player with huge potential, Dest would make a fine addition to Tuchel’s squad. But they will have to act fast if they want to secure his services or they could lose him to a rival. Fans will hope that if the player leaves his current club, he chooses to land in London over Manchester.
More Chelsea News
- Thomas Tuchel gives his verdict after Chelsea won 1-0 against Everton
- Chelsea target Benjamin Sesko makes a decision on his future
- Marcos Alonso requests Thomas Tuchel to drop him against Everton
As for Alonso, Marc Cucurella’s move from Brighton and Hove Albion seems to be the final nail in his coffin at the Bridge. He featured on the bench against the Toffees while Alonso was left out of the squad.