€10 million-rated Barcelona youngster very close to joining Ligue 1 giants on loan

Only just a while ago it was reported that Barcelona misfit Sergino Dest could be on his way back to the Netherlands, with PSV Eindhoven eyeing a loan move for him.

However, there seems to be a major shift in the story as Luis F Rojo of MARCA is now reporting that Dest is very close to signing for OGC Nice on a season-long loan deal.

The two clubs are understood to be negotiating the distribution of the 22-year-old’s salary before the move can be finalised.

Dest headed to France?

Dest has been out of favour at Barcelona ever since Xavi Hernandez took over the reins back in 2021. The 22-year-old right-back, whose market value stands at €10 million, spent the last season on loan at AC Milan and endured a torrid spell.

With the Rossoneri deciding against triggering his permanent buy clause, Dest was back at Barça and was given a chance during pre-season to force his way back into Xavi’s thoughts.

However, the USMNT star struggled during his appearances in pre-season and as such Barcelona were convinced that his departure would be the best option for everyone.

While the Blaugrana ideally preferred a permanent sale, the lack of interest meant that they opened the doors for a loan departure.

It appeared that a move back to the Eredivisie was on the cards with PSV showing an interest, but the aforementioned report states that Dest is uninterested in returning to the Netherlands where he played for Ajax in the past.

As such, a move to Nice is now close, with talks having progressed positively between the Ligue 1 giants and Barcelona.

However, the French outfit are unwilling to take on Dest’s entire salary which is where the talks are at this point, with the two clubs trying to work out a satisfactory agreement over the distribution of his wages.

Meanwhile, SPORT is reporting that Barcelona have given Dest time until Monday to make a decision and choose one between PSV or Nice.

It states that the operation will be a loan deal with an option to buy, with negotiations advanced with both clubs. The final decision is now understood to be with the player.

Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.