Revealed: The 'difficult issue' facing PSV after Sergino Dest injury blow with USMNT star's €10m transfer from Barcelona now in doubt

The full-back was seriously injured during training for PSV last Saturday and faces an extended period on the sidelines, with some reports suggesting he is unlikely to return until the turn of the year.

The development poses something of a conundrum for PSV, who were keen to make Dest's loan move from Barcelona permanent for a reported €10m fee, but are now faced with the prospect of making a big investment for a player who faces a long road back to fitness.

Dutch outlet Voetbal Primeur reports that the club's hierarchy remain keen on the deal and will attempt to negotiate a lower fee with their Spanish counterparts.

The setback comes as a huge blow for club, country and player. Dest had enjoyed a stellar season as PSV swept to what should prove an unassailable led at the top of the Eredivisie, rattling up a remarkable tally of goals while remaining defensively solid.

Dest's attacking play from defence had been a key feature of that success, with the full-back scoring twice and providing seven assists as he linked up with fellow Americans Malik Tillman and Ricardo Pepi.

Dest's injury also rules him out of this summer's Copa America. The South American championship will be staged in the United States and was opened up to CONCACAF nations as part of a strategic partnership with CONMEBOL.

The USMNT clinched their ticket to the tournament after progressing to the Nations League final in November.

PSV can provide Dest some cheer as he begins his long road to recovery when they travel to Heerenveen on Thursday knowing a win will virtually seal a first Eredivisie title since 2018.