Bayer Leverkusen and Juventus are emerging as frontrunners in the battle to secure the signature of Manchester City defender Yan Couto in the upcoming transfer window, according to a source briefed by ESPN. Couto has made a significant impact during his loan spell at Girona this season, leading to his first call-up to the Brazil national team.
Despite being highly regarded at Manchester City, there is a recognition within the club that Couto's development could benefit from regular first-team football, which might be more readily available elsewhere than in Pep Guardiola's squad at the Etihad Stadium. Bundesliga champions Leverkusen have expressed their interest in the 21-year-old, particularly as they contemplate potential replacements for Jeremie Frimpong, who is reportedly a target for Manchester United.
In addition to Leverkusen, Serie A giants Juventus have also shown interest in Couto, along with several other Premier League clubs. The young defender's instrumental role in Girona's qualification for the Champions League, coupled with his senior international debut for Brazil and subsequent three caps, has further boosted his profile and attracted attention from across Europe. While a fee in the range of £30 million ($37.6m) to £40 million is anticipated for Couto's transfer, the possibility of a return to Girona has not been ruled out.
ADD A COMMENT :