Six bargain right-backs Borussia Dortmund should consider signing

Sergiño Dest

The next potential signing is certainly a risk and coming off a very poor campaign. With AC Milan passing on the 20 million euro option to buy him, Sergiño Dest is likely to be available for much cheaper this summer. While he has undergone much turmoil at club level, Dest has continued to dominate internationally (against typically weaker opposition) and also showed his dribbling ability at the World Cup.

During his full season at FC Barcelona, Dest put up very similar numbers to Wolf in terms of expected goals and expected assists combined. Dest’s ability in possession was up to par with the famed FC Barcelona style, completing just under 88% of his passes and around 95% of his short passes. The statistical question for Dest is in his low defensive numbers. But that is likely at least partially due to playing for Ajax and FC Barcelona, both known for controlling possession. Dest is also shorter at 5’8” and is a liability in the air.

Dest’s attitude and wage demands could hinder any potential transfer. Following a lengthy transfer saga which led to Dest being publicly criticized by Xavi, he ended up at AC Milan. Now back in Spain, it can be presumed that the USMNT international sees no reason to sacrifice the wages he is currently on. While there is nothing wrong with a player taking advantage of their short career, this could add expense to an otherwise cheap transfer.

Dest would be an excellent compliment to Wolf in particular against teams that sit deeper, where Wolf can be a bit predictable. Given the fall of his value and just two years left on his contract, it is possible to find a bargain between 8-12 million. Dest’s ability to hit the ground running and cover several spots makes him an excellent squad option with some upside.