Borussia Dortmund are reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old Manchester City full-back prospect Yan Couto this summer.
Borussia Dortmund are reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old Manchester City full-back prospect Yan Couto this summer.
Couto has not yet made a first-team appearance for the Premier League champions but enjoyed an outstanding loan spell at Girona last season.
In 39 appearances across all competitions for the Blanquivermells last season, the full-back scored two goals and provided 10 assists, helping the Spanish outfit finish third in La Liga, securing a spot in the Champions League.
If his transfer to Borussia Dortmund materializes, the 22-year-old would be competing with Julian Ryerson for a starting position at right-back.
Ryerson was BVB’s first-choice right-back last season and can also play on the opposite flank, while Couto is a more attack-minded player and could be an exciting signing for Nuri Sahin‘s side.
© Imago
Dortmund enquire about Couto’s availability
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Dortmund have made contact with the Citizens over a possible move for the Brazilian this summer.
However, the report adds that the Bundesliga side are looking to negotiate a deal, as they are unwilling to pay the £35m release clause in the player’s contract.
It is understood that the Black and Yellows value the player in the region of £20m plus add-ons and want to sign Couto on an initial loan deal with the obligation to make the signing permanent at the end of the 2024-25 season.
City are said to be looking to transfer the 22-year-old on a permanent basis, and discussions between the two clubs are currently underway.
Couto originally arrived at the Etihad Stadium from Brazilian club Coritiba in 2020 on a five-year contract and was considered a potential replacement for Kyle Walker who will turn 35 this year.
© Reuters
Couto looking for regular playing time
While still young enough to establish himself as City’s long-term right-back, Couto is believed to be looking for a move away from Manchester in search of regular playing time.
Thus, another loan move might not be appealing to the Brazilian, unless City can offer him assurances of regular minutes in the future, which is unlikely.
The opportunity to join a club like Dortmund is therefore likely to be an exciting prospect for the 22-year-old, as he will be able to help them push for major trophies as they did last season in the Champions League.
Dortmund have prioritised strengthening in the full-back areas this summer and are reportedly also keeping an eye on Couto’s left-back partner from last season, Miguel Gutierrez.