'I am told': Leeds want to go and sign 'unreal' player but he really doesn't want to leave, journalist says

By Sam Preston

Leeds United have been credited with an interest in Sergino Dest of Barcelona but his situation is complex ahead of the summer.

Journalist Dean Jones said on the Ranks Podcast that Dest is out for the season, which is the first thing which could complicate any potential transfer.

If he does get himself back fit enough to move and be ready to play at the start of next term, Leeds would have to convince Dest to leave the Nou Camp.

They managed that with Junior Firpo during the summer transfer window under Marcelo Bielsa, although it is fair to say we are still waiting for that move to prove to be a success.

American boss Jesse Marsch will be very familiar with his countryman Dest’s quality and he is a rampaging right-back with some potential.

Leeds do not necessarily desperately need an upgrade on Luke Ayling, but he has been forced into action at centre-half at times this term.

It would be good to have Dest there and he can also play on the left of a back four too, and he is still just 21 years old, with plenty of time to improve.

USA boss Gregg Berhalter told Goal in October: “Sergino is an interesting player because it’s almost like the sky’s the limit for him. He can be as good as he wants to be and his attacking play, it’s unreal.

“It’s just really pushing himself to be the best when he’s on the field. He just needs to gain experience. He’s doing a great job. He just needs to keep working.”

Leeds first need to focus on sealing their Premier League status, because they will have no chance of convincing Dest to turn his back on Barca otherwise.

Jones said: “I’m also told that Leeds have an eye on Sergino Dest. He is ruled out of the rest of the season now, sadly.
His situation at Barcelona is not completely clear.

“He really doesn’t want to leave Barcelona from everything I’ve been told. It was a dream move for him when he arrived there but ultimately it’s going to be tricky. Dest might be surplus to requirements, we will have to see.”

Raphinha has been linked with an Elland Road exit to join Barcelona, so the two clubs may talk this summer but the ideal outcome from those discussions would be the Brazilian stays and Dest lines up alongside him in the famous white shirt next season.