According to Yahoo Sports France, Manchester City have beaten FC Barcelona in the pursuit of Yan Couto. It is believed that the Premier League giants have agreed on a deal with the Coritiba defender, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. Couto is now expected to travel to England to complete the deal, though he can only move to Man City in June when he turns 18.
Who is Yan Couto?
A product of the Coritiba youth academy, Couto has raised quite a lot of eyebrows with his performances in the Brazilian youth leagues. Although he is yet to be promoted to the Coritiba senior side, he has already made 13 appearances for the Brazil U17 side.
A right-back by trade, the 17-year-old is primarily known for his technical prowess. The youngster is blessed with quick feet that allow him to nestle through tight spaces. That means he can be utilised as a ball-carrier while his excellent sense of positioning makes it easier for him to circulate possession.
Moreover, Couto is incredibly fast, and his ability to move infield makes him a lethal counter-attacking weapon. He has already shown a lot of maturity in his game, and with time on his side, he can only improve.
Why Couto could be an ideal signing for Manchester City
While Couto might still be young, his style of play is almost tailor-made for Pep Guardiola’s tactical set up at Manchester City. As mentioned earlier, the young Brazilian is an excellent ball-carrier, meaning he can play a balancing role in a three-man backline where his ability to move centrally could help his side retain possession more efficiently.
Another key aspect of Couto’s game is his pace which tunes in well with the attackers Man City have in long supply, including Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez. He can, therefore, quickly initiate counter-attacks and somewhat play the role of Achraf Hakimi, who is one of the most crucial members of the Borussia Dortmund side.
Can he make a difference in the Premier League?
This is a far more difficult question as Couto has no experience whatsoever in the highest level of football. Fortunately, however, the 17-year-old will play for Coritiba for a few months, where he can certainly keep improving as a player and gain more experience.
Next season he is expected to join the Manchester City side. The Sky Blues already have a strong youth academy which should help Couto prepare himself for the fast-paced nature of the Premier League.
But one thing is for sure – Couto is gifted with loads of potential, and he could turn into an asset for Manchester City if he replicates his performances in the English top flight.
