Bayer Leverkusen targets Dest while Barcelona eyes €5m windfall

Bayer Leverkusen are poised to sign 25‑year‑old right‑back Sergino Dest from PSV Eindhoven for around €25 million, a move that would trigger Barcelona’s 20 % sell‑on clause and net the Catalan club roughly €5 million after Dest’s standout season in the Eredivisie and his strong showing for the United States at the World Cup.

Bayer Leverkusen have emerged as the leading contender for Sergino Dest’s signature. The Bundesliga side are seeking a replacement for Alejandro Grimaldo, who departed for Atletico Madrid, and view Dest as the ideal right‑back option. Leverkusen will compete in next season’s Europa League, making the German club an attractive destination for the 25‑year‑old.

Dest’s revival in the Eredivisie has been marked by 38 appearances, two goals and eight assists for PSV Eindhoven. His performances helped re‑establish him as one of the league’s standout full‑backs after a serious injury disrupted his progress. The United States also benefited from his form during the World Cup, further raising his profile.

Dest joined Barcelona in the summer of 2020 from Ajax before a loan spell at AC Milan in 2022. He moved to PSV on loan the following year, and after a permanent deal in 2024 Barcelona secured a 20 % sell‑on clause on any future transfer. Barcelona have no intention of re‑signing the defender, but will monitor negotiations closely.

If the €25 million deal materialises, Barcelona would receive roughly €5 million, providing a welcome financial boost. For Dest, the move offers a chance to test himself in a stronger league and continue his development. Leverkusen would add a quality full‑back to bolster their squad ahead of European competition.