The next Cole Palmer? Man City star linked with Real Madrid admits he’s INTERESTED in transfer

Robin Bairner

• 5 Apr 2024 22:56 BST
• 13 min read

Real Madrid could land one of Manchester City’s brightest up-and-coming stars, with the player admitting that he is open to a move to the Bernabeu side.

Yan Couto is on loan at Girona from Man City, with the 21-year-old having rapidly established himself as one of the most promising full-backs in LaLiga.

In 28 league appearances this season, the three-time capped Brazil player has scored one goal and delivered eight assists as Girona have climbed to third in LaLiga during what has been a remarkable season for Michel’s outfit.

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It is a performance that has caught the attention of Real Madrid, who have been linked with a move for the right-back. He is seen as a potential long-term successor for Dani Carvajal.

And Couto has done little to play down the rumours.

Speaking to Catalunya Radio, he said: “Real Madrid want me? Well, it would be an option if they are interested… I’m not going to lie!

“I’m a Man City player, I have a contract there and it’s my dream to play for City.”

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Couto’s uncertain future

Couto has been at Manchester City for four years after arriving from Coritiba but has been unable to play a single game for his parent club.

Instead, he has been shipped out on loan. He is in his second season with Girona, with these sandwiching a campaign with Braga in Portugal.

It is a situation that echoes that of Cole Palmer, who struggled for game time at Man City but has flourished after moving to Chelsea last summer.

Data analytics experts SciSports suggest that a move to Real Madrid could be interesting for him, although at present his playing chances are likely to be small at the Bernabeu. He would, however, benefit from the high standard of players around him and could develop his game.

Couto vs LaLiga full-backs: 2023/24

Manchester City are seen as a better option for him at present, though only because they have both a playing style and formation more suited to his style.

Girona are seen as a better club for him still, although there are concerns he may not be able to develop further here, which could fuel a summer transfer, either on another loan or a permanent deal.

While it is unclear what Real Madrid may need to pay, Couto has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €17.2 million according to the FootballTransfers algorithm.