I am not aware of EC261 rules applying when airlines reschedule you to arrive earlier than planned. (even if that makes the trip much longer than originally booked) And you are outside the 2-week window when a flight cancellation would involve compensation.

I believe that your options are:

1. Accept the VY re-route for 1 or both flights
2. Accept the VY refund for 1 or both flights and book yourself onto Ryanair
3. Take VY to small claims court for reimbursement of the Ryanair fare difference

VY is definitely never going to rebook you themselves on another airline. It's always up to you to do and then sue for reimbursement.