- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Borussia Dortmund are confident of signing Manchester City right-back Yan Couto this summer.
Yan Couto spent last season on loan at Girona and the Brazilian defender excelled for the Spanish side as they achieved qualification to the UEFA Champions League.
Last season, Couto made 34 appearances for the Spanish side in La Liga and he scored one goal and provided eight assists for the club before returning to Manchester City.
Couto had previously stated he would hold talks with Pep Guardiola about his future at the Etihad Stadium and now sources have told HITC Borussia Dortmund are confident of striking a deal for the Brazilian right-back.
Dortmund in advanced talks for Couto
Sources have told HITC that German giants Dortmund and City are in advanced talks over a deal worth €20million after the player reached an agreement with the German outfit over his personal terms.
Dortmund did have Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen on loan last season but the Dutchman decided to join Unai Emery’s Aston Villa with the club embarking on Champions League football.
HITC can reveal that City’s hierarchy spoke at length with Pep Guardiola about Couto earlier this summer.
The prospect discuss by the club’s top brass surrounded the possibility of Couto moving from one City Football Group club to another with Couto moving to the Premier League Champions, just as Girona winger Salvio has done.
City make Couto decision
However, despite discussions being held with Guardiola about keeping Couto at the Etihad Stadium, HITC understands that City have decided to sell the defender.
Despite the club looking at full-back options this summer, Couto, who has been praised by talent scout Jacek Kulig for the “superb” season he had at Girona, will leave City and is now closing in on a move to Dortmund.
Couto had previously spoken about the environment created at the Etihad Stadium and that he would like to stay at the club but that now does not look like a possibility.
“It was good, it was nice,” Couto told Globo Esporte. “It’s a club that has helped me grow a lot in many ways, that gives very good support and is growing not just the club, but the group.
“I think their project is great and we’ll see what’s in store for us next season. We’ll see everything after the Copa América.”
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