Barcelona could use Sergino Dest as part of deal to sign Premier League star: Reports
Barcelona are reportedly working to use right-back Sergino Dest, currently on loan at AC Milan, in their move to sign midfielder Ruben Neves from Wolverhampton. The Catalan side are keen on signing the Portuguese star but are trying to bring down the asking price.
As per a report in El Nacional, super agent Jorge Mendes is desperate to bring Neves to Barcelona and is doing all he can to convince the Catalan side to sign his client. The Blaugrana are interested in the midfielder but are trying to reduce the transfer fee as much as possible.
Neves has confirmed that he wants to play in the UEFA Champions League, something that has not been possible at Wolverhampton. He told the media (via Sky Sports):
"I want to be here but I never hide that I want to play Champions League football. It's a hard decision. Me and my family love it here, but in football you have to go for your main goals. Nothing's happened yet. If it was my last game here I really enjoyed it and I'm very thankful for the last six seasons."
Barcelona are now looking to offer Sergino Dest in a deal to sign the Portuguese midfielder. However, they will face competition from Manchester United, who are also interested in the Portuguese star, as per Daily Mail.
Barcelona loanee keen on staying at current club
Sergino Dest spoke about his AC Milan stint earlier this season and confirmed that the Serie A side have the option to sign him permanently. He is keen on staying at San Siro, saying that he is happy at the club. He said (via Football Italia):
"There's a buy option in the contract between AC Milan and Barcelona, so I will do my best here as I hope Milan will sign me on permanent deal. I'm really happy here and I will give 100% to stay."
He added:
"I love this club. This is a club I wanted to play for when I was younger. I think this is a nice step for me, a good chance to play again. I'm really glad and honored to play for this club and I will give my best."
Dest reportedly has offers from Premier League too, and Blaugrana are keen on selling the USMNT star.