Celtic have been given the green light to make a move for Manchester City full-back Yan Couto, amid reports that the youngster is keen to leave the club.

What's the word?

According to Torcedores, the Brazilian gem is seeking a permanent transfer away from the Etihad this summer, having failed to make a single first-team appearance for Pep Guardiola's side joining the club from Coritiba two years ago.

The 20-year-old has spent the last two seasons on loan in Spain and Portugal at Girona and Braga, respectively, although is said to be favouring a return to South America.

A move to Parkhead may not be off the cards, however, with the right-back having been heavily linked with a loan move to Glasgow last summer, albeit before ultimately joining the Primeira Liga outfit.

According to Gary Caldwell, who works as a loan manager for City, the 5 foot 6 ace had been impressed by the Hoops' "incredible" supporters, although ultimately opted against a move due to the "language barrier".

Juranovic 2.0

Having received the green light to make a move, the hope will be that Couto can be tempted into making the switch this time around, particularly with Ange Postecoglou's side now in a much more stable position and with Champions League football to offer next term.

The diminutive defender - who has been dubbed a "superb talent" by scout Jacek Kulig - enjoyed a particularly impressive 2021/22 campaign during his temporary stint, netting once and providing two assists in 28 league outings, while also creating eight big chances and averaging one key pass per game.

While former boss Carlos Carvahal admitted that he needs to work on the defensive side of his game, the one-time Swansea City manager was full of praise for the starlet's attacking output, insisting he is a "very good player" in an offensive sense.

That forward-thinking approach would seemingly thrive in Postecoglou's progressive style of play, with the 56-year-old putting great emphasis on his full-backs to impact the game in the final third.

One man who has already showcased his talent in that regard is Josip Juranovic, with the 26-year-old having thrived at Parkhead since his £2.5m move from Legia Warsaw last summer.

Comfortable on either side of the defence, the Croatia international enjoyed a hugely impressive debut campaign last time out, providing five goals and two assists in 35 games in all competitions for the eventual Scottish champions

That form has unsurprisingly alerted the attention of other clubs, however, amid rampant speculation that the £16k-per-week star could be on his way to Atletico Madrid in the current window, having also established himself for his country.

That potential exit has left the door open for the Old Firm giants to turn to the £4.5m-rated Couto once again, with the City prospect potentially able to follow in the footsteps of the current Celtic man and make an instant impact at the club.

IN other news, Deal Imminent: Celtic “very close” to big summer move, it’d be Ange’s best swoop yet