Surprise move: BVB are reportedly open to a unique transfer structure for Yan Couto

In early June, transfer journalist Matteo Moretto reported that the Serie A Champions League contender had already begun negotiations for Couto. However, Sky now states that, at least regarding a move to the club managed by Cesc Fàbregas, "only a loan is possible". According to Moretto, Couto is now "open to a move", and talks are at an advanced stage.

Couto rarely impressed in his second year with Dortmund either. Admittedly, the right-back improved compared to his completely disastrous debut season, during which he struggled greatly to adapt. But once again, he could hardly establish himself. 

That was partly because his rival Julian Ryerson enjoyed his best season in yellow and black, delivering 18 assists in 42 competitive matches. By comparison, Couto's three goals and three assists were insufficient returns for a player whose €20 million buy-out clause was triggered by BVB after only a few appearances the previous campaign.

Under Niko Kovac, Couto saw very little action, logging only eight minutes over the final eight matchdays and spending the full 90 minutes on the bench on five occasions.

Things began promisingly for Couto this season. He started several matches in a row and showed clear progress, trimming the list of shortcomings that had dogged him: technical errors, poor positioning, a low success rate in one-on-one challenges, and a lack of physicality. As his overall error count fell, he grew in confidence. His movement into the centre supported the attack, and his crosses became more dangerous; he contributed to five of his six goals in the first half of the season.

"I'm very pleased with his development," Kovac said a few weeks ago. "Yan has had a lot more playing time this season than last year. Julian is performing really well, doing a great job in attack. He's provided the most assists. That's why it's painful for Yan, but all the more pleasing for me, that I have two good lads on the right flank."

Kovac's remarks even hint that Couto may stay beyond the summer. Thanks to his impressive assist tally, Ryerson has reportedly drawn interest from several top clubs, with Manchester United said to be monitoring the Norwegian World Cup star. According to Sky, BVB value Ryerson at least €30 million.

A few weeks ago, though, Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken dismissed the reports as "complete nonsense". Ryerson himself brushed off the speculation, telling a reporter, "You're really clever, aren't you? You know more than I do. I've got a two-year contract here, so I'm not giving it any more thought."