Como shore up defence with Brazilian Yan Couto on loan

Como have secured a season‑long loan for 24‑year‑old Brazilian full‑back Yan Couto from Borussia Dortmund, paying a €2 million loan fee and obtaining a €20 million purchase option for next summer. The move plugs a lack of depth on the right side of defence ahead of the new campaign.

The Serie A side Como will pay the €2 million fee to secure the loan for one season. Should Couto impress, Como can trigger the €20 million option to buy him permanently in the summer.

Negotiations between Borussia Dortmund and Como had stalled earlier over the financial structure of the move. The €2 million fee and the optional €20 million transfer price now satisfy the previously disputed terms, allowing the loan to proceed. The agreement was confirmed after Fabrizio Romano reported that both clubs had reached an accord.

Couto has struggled to become the undisputed first‑choice right‑back at Dortmund. Julian Ryerson remains ahead in the defensive hierarchy after an impressive second half of last season, limiting Couto’s opportunities to break into the starting lineup.

Head coach Niko Kovač has also been experimenting with Maximilian Beier in a deeper wide role during preseason, featuring him as a right wing‑back in a friendly against FC Tokyo. Beyond Ryerson and Beier, Dortmund have other options on the opposite side, including Daniel Svensson and young Brazilian Kauã Prates, indicating the squad can absorb Couto’s departure without a loss of depth.

The 24‑year‑old Brazilian missed Dortmund training to conduct talks with another club, a sign that the transfer is now entering its final stages. An official confirmation is expected once the remaining formalities with Como are completed.

For Como, the loan provides an immediate upgrade to their back line and the chance to secure a permanent deal if Couto impresses. For Dortmund, the move frees a squad spot, reduces wage commitments and allows the development of Beier and other emerging defenders.