The Borussia Dortmund hierarchy appears poised to finalize the departure of right-back Yan Couto before the summer transfer window closes. After weeks of protracted discussions, the German club has reached a preliminary agreement with Serie A outfit Como 1907, paving the way for a temporary move rather than a permanent sale.

Como emerges as prime destination for Couto’s loan move

Sources close to the negotiations confirm that Dortmund will not offload the Brazilian defender outright. Instead, a loan arrangement spanning the upcoming season is on the cards, with both parties exploring the inclusion of a future purchase option. This pathway would allow Como to evaluate Couto’s suitability firsthand while providing Dortmund with financial flexibility.

The potential deal marks a swift turnaround for Como, which initially appeared to lose interest in Couto earlier this month. Reports at the time suggested the Italian club was pivoting toward alternative targets in its search for defensive reinforcements.

From Manchester City loan to Dortmund’s expensive experiment

Couto’s journey to Signal Iduna Park began in 2024, when Dortmund secured his loan from Manchester City. The German side then activated a mandatory buy clause in summer 2025, reportedly investing €25 million to make the deal permanent. The decision came despite Couto’s inconsistent displays during his debut season, where he frequently found himself confined to the substitutes’ bench.

Last season’s struggles continued, with Couto struggling to secure regular playing time. Under Niko Kovač, he logged just twelve minutes across two months in the final stretch of the campaign, highlighting his diminished role within the squad.

Como’s Champions League ambitions hinge on Couto’s fitness

Now, under the guidance of head coach Cesc Fàbregas, Como is revisiting Couto as a viable solution. The former Arsenal midfielder has overseen a resurgence at the club, steering them to a fourth-place finish in Serie A last term. With Como set to compete in the UEFA Champions League, the Brazilian’s arrival could bolster their defensive depth ahead of their continental campaign.

Despite his contract at Dortmund running until 2030, the club’s willingness to entertain a loan deal underscores Couto’s limited future in their long-term plans. The transfer saga serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in modern football, where player trajectories are often dictated by tactical decisions rather than raw potential.