According to Sky Germany, Sergino Dest prefers a move to Bayern Munich. The Ajax right-back has been linked with a move away from Amsterdam this summer, with the Bavarians being among the clubs interested in his services. It seems Dest himself wants to join the treble winners, although Bayern are also keeping an eye on Norwich City’s Max Aarons as a potential alternative.
In this article, we will discuss why Hansi Flick must sign Dest at all cost this summer.
A natural fit for Bayern Munich
Although one of the lesser-known stars in the United States national team, Dest is undoubtedly a talented right-back, who has already made waves in Europe. He has been consistent with Ajax throughout last season, registering five assists in 20 games.
The 19-year-old is known for his electric pace that allows him to cover the entire flank and make up ground quickly. It is something Benjamin Pavard lacks in his game but more importantly, it tunes in well with Flick’s high defensive backline that requires pacy fullbacks like Alphonso Davies.
Meanwhile, Dest’s ability to move forward and provide the offensive support bears a resemblance to Joshua Kimmich, who used to occupy the right-back slot before shifting into the central defensive role last season.
In fairness, Dest is the ideal man with qualities of both Kimmich and Pavard, which makes him a perfect fit for Flick as he looks to bolster his defensive options next season.
An answer to Flick’s injury problems
Bayern Munich are often faced with injury crises, especially in the defensive department. They were, in fact, lucky to get away with the absence of Pavard and Niklas Sule and yet win the Champions League title last season, though largely thanks to Kimmich and Thiago Alcantara.
The Bavarians, however, may not get lucky next time, and that is where Dest comes in. The USMNT star could provide some much-needed backup to Pavard in the right-back slot, giving the Frenchman an incentive to fight harder for a place in the first-team.
Also, it won’t force Bayern Munich to rely on Kimmich to cover at right-back, which could be useful as Thiago Alcantara is facing an uncertain future at the club. Hence, the Bundesliga champions will be slightly shallow in the midfield department.
A Smart Marketing Tool
It will be ignorant of Bayern Munich to overlook the marketing prospects of signing Dest this summer. Football in the United States is already gaining traction and Bundesliga, in particular, is at the forefront of it, especially with many American footballers plying their trade in the German top flight.
In Dest, Bayern Munich could be home to one of USMNT’s finest talents, which should significantly help the Bavarians further their popularity in the US. It could be good for Bundesliga too, especially with other top talents like Giovanni Reyna of Borussia Dortmund and Josh Sargent of Werder Bremen also looking to make an impact in professional football next season.