FC Barcelona is in early negotiations with a €25m prized Borussia Dortmund standout over a potential blockbuster transfer.
The La Liga champions quietly probe Bundesliga markets for a shrewd, budget-conscious right-back upgrade to shield Jules Koundé from burnout amid Hansi Flick’s high-octane demands, blending defensive steel with attacking output in a system craving rotation depth for Champions League marathons and title sprints.
Jules Koundé’s versatility has anchored the flank despite early-season wobbles, but Eric García’s midfield redeployment exposes vulnerability, prompting Deco’s scouting radar to prioritize reliable deputies over splashy stars given financial fair play handcuffs post-treble spending.
La Masia hopefuls like Xavi Espart and loanee Héctor Fort loom as internal fixes, yet external experience beckons for immediate impact, with preliminary feelers signaling summer intent over January frenzy to align with Dortmund’s firm contract stance.
That defender is Julian Ryerson, the 28-year-old Norwegian who joined Borussia Dortmund in January 2023 and boasts a contract until 2028, drawing Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger’s revelation of opening discussions with his camp, where mutual openness glints without advanced commitments.
Ryerson’s campaign – five assists across 20 outings – underscores his dual-threat profile: tackling tenacity, forward surges, and 121 appearances yielding seven goals, eleven assists for the Black and Yellows.
Flick craves Koundé’s backup, blending positional nous and stamina, qualities Ryerson flashed versus Barcelona in UCL ties, validating his temperament for Camp Nou pressure cooker.
Borussia Dortmund, eyeing €20-25m valuation, welcomes offers suiting squad refresh, while Barcelona weighs affordability against youth promotion.
Ryerson eyes La Liga leap for prestige and minutes, fitting Flick’s tactical mosaic seamlessly.
This embryonic linkup tests negotiation finesse, promising defensive equilibrium if finances align.
Mutual openness lays the groundwork for summer fruition, potentially fortifying the right flank for another trophy haul if negotiations accelerate beyond exploratory whispers.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
