USMNT star Sergino Dest completes permanent PSV move from Barcelona despite long-term injury issue

Dest, who joined PSV on loan last summer, has now committed to a four-year contract with the Dutch side, a testament to the club’s faith in his abilities and potential recovery from a knee injury that he suffered in training in April. The injury requires extensive rehabilitation, and Dest is not expected to join group training for several months.

The club secured Dest on a free transfer, signing him until 2028. This deal has a sell-on clause, ensuring that Barcelona retain a percentage of any future sale if he is shipped to a different club for a transfer fee.

Dest’s decision to join PSV permanently is influenced by several factors. The defender feels valued and appreciated at PSV, where he has found a supportive and warm environment.

“First of all, PSV believes in me and I am greatly appreciated here. I got to know the club as incredibly warm, like I have never experienced anywhere before. Those are important aspects for someone in my situation and give me confidence that I can rehabilitate well here,” Dest said.

“Once the time comes, it is very nice that the game we play here suits me. I'm really looking forward to getting minutes again, being important and grabbing titles,” the 23-year-old right-back added.

Dest’s journey from Ajax to Barcelona in 2020 was marked by high expectations. In his first two seasons with the Catalan club, he made 51 league appearances. However, he spent the 2022-23 season on loan at AC Milan, gaining valuable experience in Serie A. On the international front, Dest has been capped 33 times by the United States, playing a vital role in their defensive line. His loan spell last season was nothing short of impressive as he made 25 appearances, contributing two goals and six assists for PSV.

As Dest continues his recovery, he is set to join the PSV squad later in 2024. The club’s medical team and coaching staff are supporting his rehabilitation process, ensuring he regains full fitness before making a return to competitive action.