PSV Negotiates ‘Low-Cost’ Transfer with Barcelona for Sergiño Dest Despite Knee Injury

The hopes of FC Barcelona to earn the stipulated €10 million from PSV’s purchase option for Sergiño Dest have been dashed due to a serious knee injury suffered by the American full-back. Despite the setback, PSV is reluctant to abandon Dest and has approached the Catalan club to find a consensus solution that requires effort from all parties involved. Negotiations entail a significantly reduced transfer fee, with a future percentage for Barcelona, and the player himself may need to accept a salary cut to facilitate the deal.

Dest, on loan to PSV, has delivered impressive performances this season, showcasing versatility across both flanks. The Dutch club had previously agreed to a staggered payment plan for the €10 million fee, with activation expected at the end of the season. Dest had also inked a four-year deal contingent upon the exercise of the option, positioning Barcelona to offload a player not in their plans and whose contract expires in 2025.

However, Dest’s injury poses a significant dilemma for Barcelona. He could return to recover at the club, but playing before January seems improbable. With his contract expiring six months later, the club would be liable for his salary in the final year before he becomes a free agent. While recognizing a moral obligation to support Dest, PSV is also cautious about not giving away assets.

The proposed solution involves a virtually symbolic transfer fee of €1-2 million, with PSV retaining ownership and Barcelona receiving a share of any future sale. Additionally, the Dutch club expects Dest to accept a reduced salary due to his injury. All parties seem inclined to reach an agreement, with Barcelona viewing the minimal transfer fee as a lesser evil, given that it would also alleviate the burden of paying Dest’s wages while he recovers for a significant portion of the upcoming season.

Dest’s journey began with Barcelona under Ronald Koeman, but after Xavi Hernández’s appointment, he found himself on the periphery. Initially loaned to Milan without much success, Dest has rediscovered his form at PSV, prompting the Dutch club to envision a long-term commitment. At just 23 years old, PSV believes they can capitalize on Dest’s potential once he recovers from his serious injury.