Sunderland and Wolves Eye Borussia Dortmund Full-Back as Premier League Dream Beckons

Ryerson open to England move as Sunderland and Wolves test Borussia Dortmund’s resolve

When a player makes it clear that the Premier League is the ultimate goal, it’s only a matter of time before English clubs come sniffing around. That appears to be the case with Borussia Dortmund’s versatile full-back Julian Ryerson, who has reportedly caught the attention of both Sunderland and Wolves ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The Norwegian international, known for his tireless work rate and gritty defensive play, has become a key figure in the Dortmund setup since his arrival from Union Berlin in January 2023. In just over two seasons at Signal Iduna Park, Ryerson has racked up over 100 appearances for the Black and Yellow, played in the Champions League final, and signed a new deal that ties him to the club until 2028.

But despite the contract extension and his regular starting role under Niko Kovac, there’s a growing sense that Ryerson could be tempted by a new challenge—one that lies across the Channel in England.

A Premier League dream that refuses to go away

Ryerson has never hidden his admiration for the Premier League. According to reports from Sky Sport Germany, the 27-year-old sees England’s top flight as the pinnacle of club football and has told those close to him that playing in the Premier League is a long-standing dream.

While he’s said to be content with life at Dortmund, the timing may now be right for Ryerson to make that leap—especially with two very different, yet equally compelling, opportunities emerging in the form of newly-promoted Sunderland and a Wolves side looking to rebuild after a summer of change.

Sunderland see Ryerson as a top-flight survival piece

It’s not often that a newly-promoted club aims quite so high in the transfer market. But Sunderland, who clinched promotion back to the Premier League after a dramatic Championship play-off campaign, are looking to establish themselves as more than just relegation candidates.

With full-back depth an area of concern, the Black Cats have made discreet enquiries about Ryerson’s availability, speaking to his representatives to gauge interest. The idea of adding a Champions League finalist with Bundesliga pedigree is an ambitious one, but Sunderland believe Ryerson could offer exactly the type of experience and physicality needed to survive—and even thrive—in the top tier.

He would certainly bring plenty of versatility. Comfortable on either flank, Ryerson is equally adept going forward and tracking back, known for his no-nonsense style and a work ethic that has made him a fan favourite at every club he’s played for. In a young Sunderland team, his presence could add the kind of maturity and leadership that manager Mike Dodds is desperate to inject.

Wolves rebuild defence after Semedo departure

Borussia Dortmund v VfL Wolfsburg – Bundesliga Sunderland

Meanwhile, over in the West Midlands, Wolves are also in the market for a right-back after Nelson Semedo’s exit to Fenerbahçe. Gary O’Neil’s side may be more established in the Premier League than Sunderland, but they too are undergoing a transition.

The departure of Semedo leaves a sizable hole on the right-hand side of the defence, and Ryerson fits the bill as a ready-made replacement. Like Semedo, Ryerson offers energy and reliability, but perhaps with a bit more bite and discipline on the defensive end. He’d likely slot straight into the starting XI at Molineux and wouldn’t need much time to adapt to the physicality of English football.

Wolves have reportedly made initial contact with Ryerson’s camp to explore the possibility of a deal. While no formal negotiations with Dortmund have begun, the interest is genuine—and it could heat up quickly if Ryerson signals he’s open to the move.

Dortmund’s stance: no rush to sell, but never say never

From Dortmund’s side, there’s no obvious desire to cash in. Ryerson has been one of their more consistent performers over the last two seasons and fits well into Kovac’s system. With a contract running until 2028, the club is under no pressure to sell and would likely demand a sizeable fee should serious offers arrive.

Still, as with all Bundesliga clubs not named Bayern Munich, Dortmund are pragmatic in the transfer market. If Ryerson’s desire to play in the Premier League becomes more than just a passing thought, and if the money on the table is right, the German giants may be persuaded to part ways—especially if they already have a replacement lined up or if Ryerson expresses a wish to leave.

Not a bidding war yet—but one could be coming

At the moment, both Sunderland and Wolves are keeping things exploratory. Neither club has tabled an official bid, and it remains to be seen whether Dortmund will entertain offers or whether Ryerson himself will push for a move.

But what’s clear is that there’s a growing market for him in England. And when a player is motivated by the chance to play Premier League football, that can often be the catalyst that sparks serious movement. Sunderland’s promotion and Wolves’ reshuffle have created a perfect storm—now it’s up to Ryerson to decide whether this is the moment to act on his ambitions.

At 27, he’s arguably at the peak of his powers. He has Bundesliga experience, European pedigree, and a reputation as one of the most hard-working full-backs in Germany. For either club, landing him would be a coup. For Ryerson, it could finally be the fulfilment of a lifelong footballing dream.