Barcelona fearing new financial blow after defender suffers serious injury

Barcelona fear their financial planning may have taken a hit after right-back Sergino Dest confirmed he has ruptured his ACL.

Dest has enjoyed a successful loan spell with PSV Eindhoven, starting 25 games for the soon-to-be champions, and was expected to make his move to the club permanent thanks to a €10m purchase option in his contract.

However, the 23-year-old confirmed earlier this week he is facing an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a nasty knee injury.

"Unfortunately, I tore my ACL," he said in a video. "I will have an operation soon. I'll try to come back as soon as possible to my top level.

"It will be a difficult time for me, but I know these times only make me stronger, so I will come back to make you all proud. See you soon."

Barca remain in a perilous financial decision and had been banking on selling Dest for €10m, with many at the club confident a deal would be done due to his impressive form. Starting primarily at left-back, the United States international has two goals and seven assists to his name this season.

However, Marca now state he is closer to returning to Barca, with PSV perhaps reluctant to commit to such a spend on a player after what could be a career-altering injury.

Barca do not want to see Dest back at Camp Nou this summer as, if PSV choose not to sign him permanently, they are aware they will not be able to offload the 23-year-old until he has recovered from his injury.

Dest has already publicly admitted it would be "difficult" for him to return to Barca while Xavi remains in charge, effectively ruling out any chances of a potential reintegration into the squad.

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