Why Barcelona are Eyeing Julian Ryerson: A Deep Dive into the Right‑Back Market
Barcelona’s scouting network has turned its attention to Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson, a 28‑year‑old full‑back whose contract runs until 2028. The Catalan giants are reportedly in early negotiations to secure a reliable, cost‑effective backup for Jules Kounde ahead of next season.
The Current Right‑Back Situation at Barça
Since arriving from Sevilla, Jules Kounde has been the first‑choice right‑back, but a dip in form early in the campaign forced Hansi Flick to experiment with Eric García in that role. García’s versatility—shifting between defence and midfield—has helped cover the gap, yet the club still lacks a specialist right‑back who can step in without sacrificing tactical balance.
Promising academy graduate Xavi Espart and loan‑player Héctor Fort are on the fringe, but experience at the highest level remains a priority for a squad that competes on three fronts.
Julian Ryerson: Profile and Recent Form
Ryerson joined Dortmund in January 2023 for a reported €12 million. In the current season he has contributed five assists across 20 appearances, showcasing an attacking edge that aligns with Barcelona’s possession‑heavy philosophy.
According to Transfermarkt, his market value sits around €15 million—well below the price tag of many established Bundesliga full‑backs, making him an attractive option for a club mindful of Financial Fair Play constraints.
Broader Transfer Trends: Cost‑Effective Full‑Backs from the Bundesliga
Over the past five years, the Bundesliga has become a hotbed for affordable, high‑quality defenders:
- Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich → Bayern) proved that a 20‑year‑old could command a €40 million fee.
- Thomas Meunier (Borussia Dortmund → Paris Saint‑Germain) moved for €13 million in 2020.
- Emre Can (Borussia Dortmund → Liverpool) transferred for €19 million in 2018.
Julian Ryerson fits this pattern: mature, proven at a top‑flight club, and priced below many peers.
What This Means for Barcelona’s Recruitment Strategy
Barcelona’s recent focus on home‑grown talent (e.g., Xavi Espart’s rise through La Masia) is complemented by strategic, low‑risk signings abroad. Ryerson could offer:
- Immediate squad depth without a massive outlay.
- Experience in a high‑tempo league, easing his adaptation to La Liga.
- A right‑back capable of contributing to attack, supporting the team’s high‑pressing system.
Potential Obstacles and What to Watch For
While Ryerson appears open to a move, two factors could stall the deal:
- Contract Length: With a contract through 2028, Dortmund may demand a higher fee if they deem him indispensable.
- Squad Registration Limits: Barcelona’s limited non‑EU slots could affect the final decision if the club seeks additional foreign talent.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Is Julian Ryerson currently a starter for Borussia Dortmund?
- A: He rotates regularly, featuring in roughly 60 % of league matches and providing key assists when deployed.
- Q: How much would Ryerson cost Barcelona?
- A: Exact figures are undisclosed, but estimates range from €12 million to €16 million based on market value and contract length.
- Q: Could Xavi Espart compete for the same position?
- A: Espart is primarily a right‑winger, though his defensive work rate could allow him to cover the full‑back role in emergencies.
- Q: What is Hansi Flick’s preferred formation for right‑back duties?
- A: Flick often uses a 4‑3‑3 system, requiring the right‑back to provide width and overlap while also maintaining defensive solidity.
What’s Next for the Catalan Club?
Barcelona will likely monitor Ryerson’s situation throughout the summer window, weighing him against internal options and potential alternatives from the Bundesliga or Ligue 1. As the club continues to balance financial prudence with on‑field ambition, the Ryerson saga could become a case study in smart, value‑driven recruitment.
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