​Manchester United’s pursuit of Julian Ryerson faces a renewed challenge as AC Milan weigh a bid for the Borussia Dortmund full-back, according to the latest German outlets. Fresh from what many are calling the best season of his career, Ryerson remains on international duty with Norway at the World Cup, where he has already helped his nation make a landmark run in North America. Heading into the tournament, the Viking squad, led by the unstoppable Erling Haaland, had never progressed beyond the round of sixteen. Yet a memorable 2-1 victory over Brazil, a game in which Ryerson largely shackled Vinícius Júnior, has propelled them into a quarter-final clash with England on Saturday night. Ryerson is slated to start at right-back, the position he regularly occupies for Borussia Dortmund. The 28-year-old, described as “outstanding,” is a dual threat, recording an impressive 15 assists in the Bundesliga last season. Only Bayern Munich’s star player Michael Olise managed more assists in the league. Hailing from Lyngdal, Ryerson previously played for Union Berlin before moving to Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park in 2023. His versatility is a key asset: he can operate as a wing-back on either flank and has even filled in at centre-back for Die Schwarzgelben.
With Manchester United seeking reinforcements to strengthen Michael Carrick’s defence, particularly at left-back where Luke Shaw requires a capable deputy, a versatile defender with a long track record at the highest club and international levels would be a prudent target. The Red Devils are believed to have touched base with Ryerson’s agents recently, having previously shown interest in May. Yet this summer’s transfer campaign promises to be highly competitive, as Milan – both AC Milan and their city rivals Inter – have entered the race, alongside FC Barcelona.
Fussball Daten reports that AC Milan, who recently appointed Ruben Amorim as head coach, view Ryerson as a “serious option to strengthen the left side of their defence.” Amorim, who replaced managers after a turbulent period at Old Trafford, is known for his preference for a system that emphasizes wing-back play. The Portuguese coach’s arrival in Milan is seen as a signal that the Rossoneri intend to line up with two attacking wing-backs next season, and a full-back with Ryerson’s attacking mindset would be an ideal addition at the San Siro.
Meanwhile, Milan’s fierce city rivals Inter are also keeping a watchful eye on Dortmund’s defender, especially after Cristian Chivu’s decision to part ways with Denzel Dumfries, who left for Real Madrid after a recent high-profile stint on the right wing-back role. In addition, Fussball Daten notes that Barcelona have reportedly made inquiries about the Norwegian, though the Spanish club’s ongoing financial fair play constraints have, so far, prevented an official approach from materializing. The German outlet reiterates that United are in need of a full-back capable of adapting to the high physical intensity of the Premier League, suggesting that Ryerson’s mix of attacking output and defensive reliability would be a valuable asset for Erik ten Hag’s side.
INEOS, the investment group closely tied to United, are said to be monitoring the situation with particular interest as they assess options to bolster the squad depth on the left flank. The imminent competition for Ryerson’s signature places United on alert, as Milan, Inter, and Barcelona reportedly weigh their own schemes to land a player who can contribute both in domestic league campaigns and European competition. The pursuit remains delicate: United must persuade Ryerson, whose stock has risen sharply thanks to his World Cup performances and his Bundesliga contributions, that he can be a pivotal part of Carrick’s project.
As the summer window unfolds, all eyes will be on Ryerson’s next move. Manchester United will be hoping to secure a deal that brings a player with proven versatility, international experience, and a track record of delivering in high-stakes matches. Whether the Red Devils can outpace Milan, Inter, and Barcelona remains to be seen, but Ryerson’s talent is undeniable, and his availability has become a major talking point for clubs across Europe.