MANCHESTER UNITED could have signed Sergino Dest this summer only for a boardroom bust-up to scupper the move, according to reports.
The American full-back, 21, was made available by Barcelona as they desperately tried to balance their finances.
United manager Erik ten Hag was interested in a reunion with Dest, whom he managed at Ajax during the 2019-20 season.
But according to The Athletic, Red Devils football director John Murtough wanted to stick with Aaron Wan-Bissaka – despite his awkward fit in Ten Hag's system.
Barca initially wanted around £17.5million for Dest, but ended up sending him out on loan to AC Milan with no obligation to buy.
The Serie A champions have the option to make the move permanent for £17.5m next summer.
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Diogo Dalot has started all seven games under Ten Hag this term.
Wan-Bissaka, meanwhile, has played just four minutes of action under the Dutchman – coming on late in the 2-1 victory over Liverpool.
Dest travelled with Barcelona on their summer tour of the US, but was left out of their opening LaLiga matches.
After joining Milan he made his debut in the Champions League this week, coming on in his new side's 1-1 draw at RB Salzburg.
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AC Milan beat off late interest from Villarreal and Borussia Dortmund to sign Dest.
They made the swoop for the 21-year-old after Alessandro Florenzi suffered a serious injury.
Barca considered a swap deal with Dortmund for Thomas Meunier, although talks didn't progress far.
They were also interested in using Dest to sign former Spurs ace Juan Foyth from Villarreal.
But a transfer to Unai Emery's side was considered too much of a "step down" for the American.
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