Manchester United have opened discussions with the entourage of AC Milan defender Strahinja Pavlovic ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Calciomercato.
The Red Devils are likely to make multiple additions to the squad this summer. A centre-back does not appear on their wishlist, but United continue to be linked with players.
Calciomercato now claim that United have established contact with Pavlovic’s camp. They are ready to offer a significant salary to persuade the Serbian star to leave Milan.
However, the Red Devils are not alone in the player’s pursuit. Several Saudi Pro League clubs, as well as Chelsea, seem interested in signing the 24-year-old central defender.
Milan could be open to a summer sale even if they qualify for the Champions League. The Rossoneri are poised to hold out for at least £43 million to part ways with Pavlovic.
United may not pursue another centre-back
The Red Devils are set to prioritise midfield recruits this summer. Casemiro will depart on a free transfer when his contract concludes at the end of the Premier League season.
Manuel Ugarte could be shown the exit door, too. The Uruguayan has played second fiddle to Casemiro this term. The club could cut their losses on him in the next transfer window.
Alongside a couple of midfielders, United could target a new left-back to compete with Luke Shaw, given Patrick Dorgu is defensively vulnerable and more comfortable as a winger.
A new striker could also be targeted, with Joshua Zirkzee poised to leave. In our view, a new central defender may not be an area of focus for the Mancunian heavyweights.
United have had Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez missing several games this term due to injuries. The former has not featured for the Red Devils since a back concern in November.
However, De Ligt has made good progress in his recovery. The Dutchman has been handled with extra caution, and he could be fully fit ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Alongside him, United have Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro for the right centre-back slot.
Pavlovic is a left-footed centre-back, but the Red Devils are well-equipped in the position too. In Ayden Heaven, they have a top-class deputy for Martinez for the left centre-back role.
Pavlovic is a player with good attributes. He has completed 91 percent of his passes in Serie A, winning five duels and two tackles per outing. He has averaged three recoveries and four clearances.
At 194cm, he has a dominating aerial and physical presence at the back. Still, we don’t see United making a move for him with the five quality central defenders in the first-team squad.
He could still end up in the Premier League next season with Chelsea or another club.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
