Sergino Dest was promoted to Ajax's senior team last summer (Getty Images)
As per Calciomercato (h/t Football.london), Tottenham are preparing to make another move for Ajax defender Sergino Dest in the summer after a £17m bid was rejected in January.
Dest, 19, began his career with Almere City FC in his hometown and joined Ajax’s youth system in the summer of 2012. For seven years he had been successful with the Dutch Champions’ youth squads before making his debut this season for the senior team, enjoying a major breakthrough.
He has been in brilliant form since getting promoted to the senior setup and has established himself as the first-choice right-back under Erik ten Hag. And, according to Voetbal International (h/t Football.london), Paris Saint-Germain are also chasing the youngster’s signature this summer.
Tottenham, meanwhile, have endured a disappointing campaign so far. A poor start led to Mauricio Pochettino’s sacking, with Jose Mourinho being named as replacement.
However, after a good start, results declined under the Portuguese as well. Spurs have been dumped out of all cup competitions, while they are the 8th in the Premier League standings.
Harry Kane’s absence was a huge blow to the squad and their defence has also been vulnerable. The Lilywhites have conceded 23 goals in their last 17 games across all competitions and a centre-back is a must in the summer.
Apart from a central defender, the manager should also bring in a right-back this summer. After selling Kieran Trippier last year, they failed to bring in a replacement and Serge Aurier has been the only recognized player in that position. But the Ivorian has failed miserably, especially in the defensive duties.
Mourinho also let go of Kyle Walker-Peters on loan in January, leaving the squad with just Aurier at right-back. Thus, with a lack of options and the Ivorian’s poor run of form, the manager should look to bring in reinforcements to the right side of the defence.
In that regard, signing Dest would be a fantastic move. The USMNT international has been in fine form despite being just 19. In 36 games in all competitions this term, he has scored 2 goals and provided 5 assists. He has looked sharp in defensive situations.
Dest’s impressive performances also earned him call to the USMNT national squad as he made his debut last September.
Tottenham are in dire need of right-backs and Dest would provide them with a viable solution. He would certainly add depth to the squad and would also bring in healthy competition. And if he is able to replicate the same form, he can go on to represent them in the long run. Thus, the Lilywhites should try to lure the teenager to North London this summer.
