Barcelona Open Talks With Borussia Dortmund Hero As La Liga Champions Seek Backup For Man City Target Jules Kounde

Barcelona are already planning ahead — and the plans may surprise a few people.

Despite sitting comfortably at the top of La Liga, the Catalan giants are reportedly exploring defensive reinforcements, with Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson emerging as an unexpected target. The move is being driven by growing concerns that Manchester City could reignite their interest in Jules Kounde, forcing new head coach Hansi Flick to prepare a reliable backup option at right-back.

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Barcelona Turn To The Bundesliga

According to reports from Sky Sport, Barcelona have already opened talks with Ryerson’s representatives to gauge the player’s interest in a move to Spain.

Flick, who knows the Bundesliga inside out, is said to be a big admirer of the Norwegian defender’s work ethic, discipline, and versatility. The German coach is believed to see Ryerson as the type of dependable, low-risk signing that fits both his tactical approach and Barcelona’s current financial reality.

At 28, Ryerson may not be a glamorous name, but he represents exactly what Flick values — consistency, physical intensity, and tactical intelligence.

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Why Ryerson Fits Flick’s Plans

Since joining Dortmund from Union Berlin in January 2023, Ryerson has quietly become one of the club’s most reliable performers. His aggressive defending, relentless pressing, and ability to operate on both flanks have made him a fan favourite at Signal Iduna Park.

While he does not offer the attacking flair traditionally associated with Barcelona full-backs, his defensive solidity and positional awareness make him an ideal rotation option in a squad competing across multiple competitions.

For Flick, reliability may matter more than reputation.

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The Jules Kounde Question

Barcelona’s interest in Ryerson is closely linked to the uncertain future of Jules Kounde.

Although the Frenchman has excelled at right-back, he has consistently expressed a preference to play centrally. His performances have reportedly attracted renewed interest from Pep Guardiola, who remains an admirer after tracking him in previous transfer windows.

Kounde’s recent contract renewal suggests Barcelona want to keep him, but with the club’s ongoing financial pressures, a major offer from Manchester City could be difficult to ignore. Even if he stays, the lack of an experienced natural alternative at right-back remains a concern.

That reality has pushed Barcelona into the market — and toward a more pragmatic profile.

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Smart Depth Over Star Power

Rather than chasing a headline signing, Barcelona appear focused on adding experienced depth that won’t disrupt squad harmony or finances. Ryerson’s profile fits perfectly: proven at a high level, tactically flexible, and unlikely to demand a guaranteed starting role.

If the deal progresses, it could prove to be one of those quiet transfers that ends up making a big difference over a long season.

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Barcelona may be La Liga champions, but under Hansi Flick, it’s clear the club is prioritizing stability, structure, and smart squad building — even if that means looking beyond the obvious names.

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