Even though Barcelona president Joan Laporta stressed that the club plan to sign a new right-back this summer, their financial position does not make it easy.
Indeed, as per Laia Cervello Herrero of The Athletic, Barcelona are not in a position to sign a new right-back in the current transfer window.
As such, manager Xavi Hernandez will once again rely on Jules Kounde as his primary choice at right-back while the inability to bring in a new player could open the doors for Sergino Dest to get another shot at proving himself at the club.
Kounde has made it clear that he does not prefer playing at right-back and would wish to return to his natural habitat at the heart of the defence.
Given the Frenchman’s stance, Barça have been looking for a new right-back in the market. Names such as Joao Cancelo, Ivan Fresneda, and more recently Pablo Maffeo have been linked with a move to the Catalan outfit.
However, given the lack of outgoings, which means a lack of Fair Play margin, the Blaugrana are not in a position to invest in a new right-back at this point.
With Sergi Roberto not a regular in Xavi’s plans, Kounde could end up having to play as a full-back yet again. But what it does is also provide an opportunity for Sergino Dest to force his way back into Xavi’s plans.
The USMNT international had a forgettable loan spell at AC Milan last season. However, he is understood to be keen on proving himself at Barça and staying at the club.
And, considering the club’s position, Xavi will give him a chance in pre-season and take a look at the former Ajax ace and his performances. A solid showing could see Dest remain a Barcelona player beyond the summer.
