Celtic face competition in their loan pursuit of Manchester City youngster Yan Couto, with Braga said to have joined the race for his signature, as reported by A Bola [via Glasgow Live].

The Lowdown: Celtic look to strengthen in defence

As the transfer window deadline draws closer, Bhoys manager Ange Postecoglou could still be in the market to bolster his squad in key areas which lack adequate depth.

Right-back will no doubt be an area of priority, with Celtic only having one man in this position with first team experience in the form of Anthony Ralston - who had made just 20 senior Hoops appearances prior to this season.

However, they could have a fight on their hands to land Couto following recent developments.

The Latest: Braga also keen on a season-long loan for Couto

Last week, the 19-year-old was present at Parkhead for the Hoops’ Europa League victory over Jablonec, possibly with a view to enticing the full-back to make the switch to Glasgow on loan [City Xtra].

However, there could now be a spanner in the works, with Braga also keen on taking the Brazilian under their wing for the new campaign on a temporary deal [A Bola via Glasgow Live].

Advantageously for Celtic, the Primeira Liga outfit are not believed to be close to an agreement and are unwilling to pay his full wage structure, something the Premier League champions would favour.

The Verdict: Celtic should strive to beat off other suitors for Couto

With the transfer window set to close at the end of the month, this news will come as little surprise to Celtic as other clubs seek to put the finishing touches to their respective squads. Someone as talented as Couto will always be likely to attract attention from other clubs owing to his defensive qualities, alongside his capability to perform as an inverted right-back.

In 2020/21, he excelled in a loan stint at Manchester City affiliates Girona, registering seven goal contributions in 30 appearances with two goals and five assists [Transfermarkt]. Couto also showed his quality in terms of chance creation, delivering 63 crosses across his time in the Segunda Division [FB Ref].

Once labelled as the ‘new Dani Alves’ by the Spanish press [The Sun], Celtic should look to seal a deal for the 19-year-old's services due to his suitability with Postecoglou’s high-octane style of football.

In other news, Celtic fans react to a transfer update regarding their talisman. Read all about it here.