United’s pursuit of explosive 28-yo full-back with 13 g/a under threat from European giants – report

Manchester United signed Patrick Dorgu and Diogo Leon in 2025 but remain on the hunt for further reinforcements in their full-back position. The Red Devils are working to assemble a squad capable of competing on several fronts and have taken a systematic approach to their transfer business. INEOS have invested wisely in the backline and attack in recent times, and the midfield is the top priority this summer. However, the Premier League giants are also exploring other opportunities and would prefer to add more cover to their full-back position. United lack a potent attacking threat from the full-back position, with the contributions of both Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui in the final third leaving a lot to be desired. Meanwhile, Luke Shaw is already on the wrong side of 30 and Patrick Dorgu is still learning his trade. The Red Devils would ideally like someone who could join forces with the attack while also providing defensive solidity during transitions. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that they have found their man in Julian Ryerson. Who is Julian Ryerson? Ryerson rose through the ranks at Viking before breaking into the senior side. He joined Union Berlin in 2018 and, five years later, moved to Borussia Dortmund, where he has turned into one of the finest full-backs in Europe. This season, the Norwegian has hit a higher gear, registering 13 assists in 29 appearances across all competitions, forcing clubs across the continent to take note. Julian Ryerson Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Bundesliga2015–114–1,335′ UEFA Champions League74–11–446′ DFB-Pokal22–1––187′ Total2921–135–1,968′ Source: Transfermarkt. The 28 year old is in his prime and could be a fine replacement for Diogo Dalot, who remains on Real Madrid’s radar at the moment. Meanwhile, Ryerson can also operate on the left flank and could also cover for Shaw when required, so United’s interest in his services is understandable. The Peoples Person recently relayed a report stating that the Premier League giants are willing to triple the player’s wages in a bid to convince him to make the move. However, it now appears that they will face competition from LaLiga in the race. Barcelona want Ryerson According to Fichajes, Hansi Flick has asked Barcelona to sign Ryerson. The German manager wants to add more quality to the full-back position and sees the Norwegian as the ideal fit for the role. The Catalans view him as a player who can make an immediate impact at Camp Nou, while his versatility also makes him a superb addition to their squad. However, the Norwegian is under contract until 2028, and the report adds that the Bundesliga club has no desire to let him go. The LaLiga giants’ entry into the race could complicate matters for United. However, Barcelona are under financial distress, which could work to the Red Devils’ advantage in the race. Final Thoughts Ryerson could bring something distinct to United, who need improvements in the full-back position. However, one assumes that the final decision regarding the pursuit will be in the hands of the incoming permanent manager, who is expected to take charge this summer. Featured image Pau Barrena via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.