Barcelona initiate talks to sign Dortmund right-back Julian Ryerson | OneFootball

Barcelona are considering signing Borussia Dortmund right-back Julian Ryerson in January (h/t Sky Sport Germany).

The Catalan giants have added the Norwegian to the list of targets as a potential back-up for Jules Kounde.

They have also held talks with Ryerson’s representative to discuss a potential deal.

The 28-year-old is open to leaving the Signal Iduna Park, having lost his starter status under manager Niko Kovac this season.

Yan Couto and Daniel Svensson have established themselves as primary right-wing-back options.

Ryerson has started only 11 games in 18 appearances this season, racking up three assists.

The Norwegian international moved from Union Berlin to Dortmund in 2023 and has featured in 121 games, bagging seven goals and 11 assists.

Dortmund consider him expendable due to the stacked options in the right-back position. Even if he stays beyond January, an exit in the summer is feasible.

Barca are exploring the winter transfer market to bolster their backline. Manager Hansi Flick believes a new right-back will reduce Kounde’s workload and add more quality to the position.

Given their financial woes, Barca are looking for cost-effective signings, and Ryerson fits the bill.

The Norwegian has proven his quality even when he is on the pitch. He is an effective player who can excel in both attacking and defensive phases.

Kounde has experienced a significant drop-off this season, compared to the influential 2024/25 season when he played a crucial role in Barcelona’s treble.

Eric Garcia has stepped up in the right-back position, showing his versatility, but Flick has been utilising him in midfield in recent games.

Kounde is also starting to gain momentum after a stellar double in the win against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League last week.