Manchester United are preparing to bolster their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League, with club legends Gary Neville and Roy Keane agreeing that defence should be a priority. The Red Devils are interested in signing Borussia Dortmund full-back Julian Ryerson for £26 million.
Ryerson's Impressive Season
Ryerson, 28, enjoyed a brilliant campaign with Dortmund, recording 15 assists in 31 Bundesliga appearances. The versatile Norwegian, capable of playing on either flank, would be part of a major recruitment drive for United this summer as they aim to increase squad depth. Manager Michael Carrick has successfully guided the team into the Champions League, meaning at least eight more matches next season.
Left-Back Reinforcement Needed
United have identified left-back as an area for strengthening, with Tyrell Malacia confirmed to leave at the end of his contract in June. German outlet Kicker reports that Ryerson is attracting interest from the Red Devils and would be available for €30 million (£26m). Dortmund reportedly need to generate funds after an early Champions League exit this season.
Neville and Keane's Advice
A move for Ryerson would likely please Neville and Keane, who have both stressed United need to sign two defenders and a couple of central midfielders. "Get two at the back," Neville declared on the Stick to Football podcast. Keane agreed: "A full-back maybe and a centre-half." When asked if midfield and defence were priority areas, Neville replied: "Yeah, I think so." Keane pointed out that United have conceded 50 goals this season, as many as 16th-placed Nottingham Forest. "That tells you all the problems at United," he affirmed.
Ryerson's Contract and Background
Ryerson is under contract at Dortmund for another two seasons. The 28-year-old, expected to be named in Norway's World Cup squad on Thursday, joined BVB from Union Berlin in January 2023, having come through Viking FK's academy in his homeland.
Other Targets
United have also been linked with RB Leipzig's David Raum, but the Germany international won't decide on his future until after the World Cup. "The club is in contact with my agent," Raum told Bild. "My focus was on qualifying for the Champions League and is now on the World Cup. After that, we will have enough time to sit down and talk."
