Barcelona preparing to terminate 22-year-old right-back’s contract at Xavi’s request – report

One of the key talking points for Barcelona during their pre-season has been the future of American right-back Sergino Dest.

The 22-year-old is now seemingly unlikely to continue as a member of the Barça squad for the 2023-24 season and could see his contract terminated according to reports from journalist Victor Malo.

Given Barcelona’s stringent finances, Xavi planned to provide playing time to Dest, but his performances during the friendlies have not been impressive.

Consequently, Malo suggests that both the coach and Mateu Alemany have arrived at a decision and are in the process of arranging a contract termination.

Failing to impress

Dest is set to become the third player to have his contract terminated, following the departures of Jordi Alba and Samuel Umtiti.

Upon returning from an unsuccessful loan period at Milan, Xavi chose to give Dest the benefit of the doubt, including him in the US tour so Xavi could observe him closely.

There are no immediate suitors for him, but the Catalans are in need of offloading his salary as soon as possible, so that they can focus on signing a new right-back – one of the main problem positions they need to reinforce.

Who can Barcelona sign?

In his stead, the Barça technical team clearly has a strong desire to bring in Joao Cancelo, and his move seems to be slowly but surely advancing.

The main hurdle lies in negotiating a good price, given that Cancelo still has four years left on his contract with Manchester City.

In the background, Ivan Fresneda, an 18-year-old winger from Real Valladolid, remains an option.

However, it would seem like Xavi is pushing for Cancelo due to his experience and proven pedigree.

Nonetheless, the limited alternatives available in the market make it essential to consider Fresneda as Barcelona’s secondary option.