Sergino Dest is ‘very flattered’ by the volume of high-level suitors emerging in his services, but the reported Arsenal transfer target has no interest in leaving Barcelona in January.
That’s according to Mundo Deportivo, who report the American is intent on staying at the Camp Nou next month. He is not ready to give up on his dream of wearing the Blaugrana jersey, just a year-and-a-half after moving to Spain from Ajax for an initial €21m (£17.5m).
Barcelona have been examining selling Dest in the winter window to free further funds for Xavi Hernandez to spend. The full-back is the most sought-after member of the Camp Nou dressing room, with numerous clubs already prepared to pay.
Barcelona see Dest as a great market opportunity given the volume of interest emerging in his services. They must make one high-ticket sale in January to register Ferran Torres’ move from Manchester City. His exit will also free enough funds for a second arrival next month.
Four clubs have so far shown their interest in a deal for Dest, including Chelsea and Bayern Munich. The Blues are keen after losing Ben Chilwell and now also Reece James to injuries.
Dest deals Arsenal transfer blow with Barcelona desires
Arsenal are also among the clubs tracking Dest’s situation at Barcelona before the January transfer window opens, according to Marca. The Spanish publication cited the Gunners and Bayern Munich as potential suitors for a €30-35m (£25-29m) mid-season move last week.
However, Dest has dealt Mikel Arteta a blow to Arsenal’s transfer plans with the full-back’s wish to stay at Barcelona. He is simply not yet ready to let his Camp Nou dream fade away.
Dest wants to gain a key role in the Blaugrana squad under Xavi following Ronald Koeman’s exit. The 21-year-old was the Dutchman’s first signing in 2020, but has struggled with injuries this season and wants to now regain fitness to show Xavi what he can offer.
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