Barcelona could replace Sergino Dest with Thomas Meunier this month already.
Just like the American, Meunier is a wing-back who usually plays in a four-at-the-back formation.
Let's compare the two based on their performances in the 2021/22 season.
Basic stats
Meunier had a more prolific 2021/22 season than Dest, recording 7 goal contributions and receiving a bit more game time.
Attacking impact
Thomas Meunier is more active and effective in front of goal.
Don't let Dest's xG stat distract you – remember he sometimes used to play as a winger under Ronald Koeman, something Meunier doesn't do. Dest usually makes more touches in the opposition third but it's the Belgian who makes those touches more dangerous.
Defensive contribution
Meunier is generally better than Dest defensively, with the American only beating the Belgian in one-on-one clashes against dribblers and the number of blocks made.
Safe to say Meunier is a better option if Xavi is looking for some no-nonsense defending on the right wing.
Passing/dribbling
Sergino Dest is a much better passer, but we expect Thomas Meunier's passing stats to improve at a more possession-based Barca side.
On the ball, Dest runs forward much more often - his dribbling stats perfectly show this - but Meunier's rare dribble attempts are more successful.
Is there anything else Meunier is better than Dest at?
The Belgian registered more ball recoveries last season - 230 against 159 - and was much better than Dest at winning aerial duels – 73.1% against 45.2%.
Conclusion
All in all, signing Meunier makes sense if Barca decide to sell Dest. He has an eye for goal and is also decent defensively.
However, while being an upgrade over the American, he can't be described as a world-class right-back. He is far from prime Dani Alves' levels.
