In a major development, journalist Patrick Berger of Sky Germany reports that FC Barcelona have held initial talks with the camp of Borussia Dortmund defender Julian Ryerson over a potential summer move.
The Blaugrana are understood to be in the market for a reliable and cost-effective right-back as backup for Jules Kounde for next season.
And Ryerson, who has a contract with the Black and Yellows until 2028, has emerged as an early target for the La Liga champions.
Early talks take place
In fact, as per the report, Barcelona have already held opening talks with Ryerson’s camp, with the right-back understood to be open to a summer transfer.
Nothing is concrete or advanced at this point, though, but there appears to be interest from both parties to make the move happen.
Ryerson, 28, has been with Dortmund since January 2023 and has been a largely reliable player for the team. In the ongoing campaign, he has five assists from 20 matches in all competitions.
As for Barcelona, they have been largely reliant on Jules Kounde at right-back over the past couple of years, although the Frenchman’s performance had dipped somewhat in the early parts of the ongoing campaign.
During that period, manager Hansi Flick used Eric Garcia as the right-back, and the Spaniard delivered solid displays, proving his versatility.
However, with Flick using him more and more in midfield and central defence, Barça are exploring the idea of signing a new backup for Kounde.
It must be noted that the Catalans have Xavi Espart, coming through the La Masia ranks, as an option. Meanwhile, Hector Fort, away on loan at Elche, could also be an option for Flick & co. next season.
However, a move for Ryerson is seemingly being explored by Barcelona for the summer, with the player himself understood to be open to the idea.
As mentioned earlier, though, there is nothing concrete and only initial exploratory talks have been held. Whether it materialises into something substantial, only time will tell.
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