Borussia Dortmund have a Yan Couto dilemma. The club spent about €25 million for him two years ago hoping the Brazilian would cement himself as one of the star players in the squad.
While his first half of 2025-26 season was an improvement from his debut campaign, Couto's fortunes nosedived immensely following the turn of the year.
He played only nine Bundesliga games out of 19 in 2026, clocking just 324 minutes of action; that's only about 36 minutes on average per appearance.
Perhaps the biggest reason behind this, is Julian Ryerson's meteoric rise. The Norwegian was in the form of his life and totalled 18 assists in all competitions, including 15 in the Bundesliga.
He was virtualy irreplacable in Niko Kovac's squad and following such a barnstorming run, is likely to retain his place on the right flank next season too.
That leaves Couto's future at Dortmund in doubt. His contract with the club runs until June 2030 but a substitute role perhaps doesn't appeal the player.
He's only 24 right now and limited opportunities mean his development into a top full-back could be stunted, also potentially hampering his international career with Brazil.
Como open talks for Couto
All's not lost yet for Yan Couto though. According to latest reports, Serie A side Como have entered into negotiations with the BVB for the out-of-favor right-back.
German news outlet Ruhr Nachrichten claims that Dortmund have set an asking price of €25 million for him, which is the same amount the Bundesliga giants paid Manchester City to acquire his services.
The club is trying to recoup their transfer fee and avoid making a loss here though given Couto's age and potential, it's still reasonable on paper.
In the first half of last season, he scored one goal and made three assists from 10 appearances, which is almost one goal contribution every two games.
On the final matchday of the season against Werder Bremen, Couto came off the bench to score their second goal in stoppage-time, once again reminding everyone of his talents.
Como understands this, and having sealed a historic qualification to Champions League next season, are looking to bolster their squad to remain competitive on multiple fronts.
Couto's departure would be in his best interests
As his future looks uncertain at the Signal Iduna Park, it's perhaps in his best interests to continue his career away from Dortmund.
Wiith a young and vibrant squad at their disposal headed by an up-and-coming manager like Cesc Fabregas, the move could perhaps bring out his best.
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