PSV set to sign Sergino Dest in time for Champions League clash v Rangers
Rangers’ Champions League opponents PSV are set to complete the signing of Sergino Dest, and will probably complete the deal in time for the clash at Ibrox, according to VI.nl.
The Dutch news outlet shared on 20 August that the USA international, 22, will undergo a medical at PSV on Sunday [20 August] or Monday [21 August], and if all the creases are ironed out, they will register him in time to play against Rangers.
This will be another dent in Rangers’ hopes of making the Champions League group stage, as what was a difficult task could become even harder with the addition of Dest to their squad.
He could cause Rangers issues
Dest will join PSV and slot straight into their side at right-back, where his marauding runs forward are likely to pose a threat to Rangers’ left-hand-side, which has been a weak point for the Glasgow club so far this season including in their pre-season preparations.
The full-back’s willingness to run with the ball and take on his man will give Gers’ opponents a new dimension to their game, with Dest ranking in the 88th percentile for successful take-ons when compared to other full-backs in the big five leagues [FBref].
Dest also ranks in the 89th percentile for non-penalty goals, with both stats showing the issues he could cause for the defence.
Rangers’ left-hand side has been an issue, after Olympiacos actively targeted their attacks down this side in their pre-season fixture, with both Borna Barisic and Ridvan Yilmaz struggling for form both defensively and going forwards.
Barisic in particular has been underwhelming considering the high regard in which he is held at Ibrox, and Dest’s attacking intentions could lead to his own attacking focus being limited.
In other Rangers news, the club’s interest in a new centre-back has been confirmed.