In a recent print edition, AS mentioned that Real Madrid have identified Manchester City starlet Yan Couto as a summer target. It has been stated that Los Blancos are eyeing a move to recruit the Brazilian full-back who is currently playing on loan at Girona.
Couto’s Impressive Loan Spell In La Liga This Season
Couto has managed to catch the eye with his performances while on loan at the Spanish club during this campaign. The Brazilian talent has done well to register two goals and secure seven assists in 28 matches for Girona this season on all fronts.
The 21-year-old has given a good account of himself on the right flank based on his average of 1.4 tackles, 0.6 clearances, 0.9 shots, 1.0 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per game in La Liga. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball after completing 84.4% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Couto is under contract at his parent club Manchester City until the summer of 2025 which could open the door for Real Madrid to recruit him on a cut-price deal at the end of this campaign.
Is Couto A Good Option For Real Madrid?
Couto is a solid tackler of the ball and doesn’t hesitate to clear the danger when the opposition are on the offensive. He can shoot the ball with venom from long-range and has got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the final third. The Brazilian sensation can also make a few driving runs with the ball on the right wing. He mainly operates as a right-back but can also function as a right-sided wide player if asked to do so.
We can expect Couto to add more quality to Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti’s defence. He has what it takes to earn a regular starting spot at the Madrid club in the coming seasons. At 21, the Brazilian has the potential to become a world-class player in his position someday.
Hence, Couto would be an excellent option for Los Blancos to consider in the long run as he could help them compete for plenty of major honours over the next decade. He already knows La Liga well by now and won’t take much time to settle into life in the Spanish capital.