Man Utd keen to sign the ‘assist king’ who’s outperforming Dalot in every way

Manchester United have reportedly set their eyes on Borussia Dortmund full-back Julian Ryerson, who would provide serious competition for Diogo Dalot down the right flank.The Portuguese right-back has been a mainstay at MUFC for several years. But while many fans and observers have been praising his improved displays this season, many would argue that the club needs to strengthen this role by signing a top-notch player.According to Bild, Man Utd have identified Ryerson as the right candidate for the role. The Norwegian was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in recent months. However, his future could lie in the Premier League, as United and Newcastle have both emerged as suitors, reports the famous German newspaper.This confirms earlier reports that linked the Old Trafford outfit with Ryerson.Man United register their interest in Julian RyersonRyerson started his career at his hometown club of Lyngdal before joining Viking FK’s academy. He has been playing his football in Germany since 2018, when he signed for Union Berlin.After rising to stardom during his spell in the German capital, Dortmund pounced for his services in January 2023, paying €5 million to secure his signature. He remains tied to the Bundesliga giants with a contract valid until June 2028.(Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)While the Norwegian’s attacking stats were relatively modest in previous campaigns, this season, he has emerged as one of the most potent wing-backs in Germany under Nico Kovac’s guidance.He has already provided his teammates with 13 assists across all competitions, including three in his most recent outing against Mainz, earning the moniker of the ‘assist king’.Ryerson has outperformed Diogo Dalot this seasonIf Man Utd are looking to sign a ready-made right-back who’s at the prime of his powers, the 28-year-old Ryerson could be the right answer.Perhaps he can replace Noussair Mazraoui, who, although versatile, hasn’t been able to lock down a starting role. The Moroccan could remain at Carrington as a squad player since he’s capable of filling various roles.Moreover, a statistical comparison between Ryerson and Dalot suggests that the Norwegian has outperformed the Portuguese in every area, except for aerial duels. Percentile Julian Ryerson Diogo Dalot Crosses completed 97.8 61.4 Expected assists 99.7 72.3 Progressive passes 78.1 62.7 Possession won 31.0 28.8 Defensive duels won (%) 83.3 22.5 Aerial duels won (%) 15.3 84.1 Progressive carries 72.6 35.1 Minutes 1456 2034 (Stats by DataMB)It should be taken into account that the two men have been playing their football in different leagues, and that Ryerson has been deployed in a more attacking position (a wing-back rather than a full-back).Nevertheless, these numbers paint a clear picture, suggesting that the Dortmund star would add a new weapon to Man Utd’s attacks.United’s Head of Recruitment, Christopher Vivell, whould likely lead the onslaught given his connections in the Bundesliga.