Manchester United and Newcastle United are racing each other to sign Borussia Dortmund right-back Julian Ryerson this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The Norway international is currently being tracked by both clubs with a view to making a move ahead of next season, and the Old Trafford outfit are understood to be keen to add quality in the full-back areas.
For Newcastle, any move for Ryerson is likely to be dictated by the futures of Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier, with a new right-back only likely to be on the Magpies’ shopping list if one of that duo departs.
Dortmund are susceptible to selling the 28-year-old, who has 14 assists this season, and that has seen him added to Manchester United’s transfer plans as a result.
Julian Ryerson impresses with 14 assists for Dortmund
Ryerson has been a standout performer for Dortmund in the Bundesliga this season, with only Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise able to better his total of 11 league assists at the moment.
The defender’s impressive tally has come from just 22 Bundesliga appearances, while he has also flourished during his team’s Champions League campaign.
However, that drew to a close last week as they were knocked out in surprise fashion by Atalanta, and it looks set to have significant lasting effects for the German giants.
Bild reported last week that they could stand to lose up to £27 million due to their premature exit from the competition, with sales seemingly needed to balance the books.
Dortmund set £26m asking price for Ryerson
Ryerson has been put forward by the club hierarchy as a potential exit candidate, and Dortmund are now prepared to move him on ahead of next season, if their £26 million valuation is met. Barcelona have also been credited with an interest in the former Union Berlin man, while a move to the Premier League also appears to be a genuine option for him.
Manchester United need to strengthen their full-back options. Michael Carrick views Ryerson as a player who can provide quality and creativity from the right side. His assist record demonstrates his ability to contribute in the final third, a quality United have lacked from their full-backs this season.
Newcastle interest depends on Livramento and Trippier futures
Newcastle’s pursuit hinges on what happens with their current right-back options. If Livramento or Trippier leaves this summer, Ryerson would become a priority target. His experience and proven quality in the Bundesliga make him an attractive option for Eddie Howe’s side.
The race between Manchester United and Newcastle could intensify as the summer window approaches. Dortmund’s financial pressures following their Champions League exit may force them to accept offers quickly.
