Man United ready to battle Premier League rivals for €40 million defender | OneFootball

Manchester United are on the lookout for defensive options in the summer transfer window.

A major rebuild is expected at Old Trafford under the leadership if INEOS and almost all positions are expected to be strengthened by the club this summer.

AC Milan’s formidable centre-back Strahinja Pavlović has emerged as a target for the Red Devils, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Man United and Crystal Palace are both positioning themselves to test the resolve of the Rossoneri hierarchy.

While Crystal Palace have acted swiftly as the first club to formally gauge the parameters of a potential deal, Man United are understood to harbor a highly concrete, long-term interest.

However, prying the dominant 24-year-old away from San Siro will require a massive financial and structural push, as Milan have currently placed a strict “not for sale” tag on their defensive cornerstone.

Man United have closely monitored Pavlović

Pavlović’s steep rise to the top of English scouting lists is a testament to his exceptional individual development under manager Massimiliano Allegri.

Arriving in Lombardy in the summer of 2024 from RB Salzburg for an initial fee of €18.5 million, the aggressive, left-footed defender initially had to bide his time to adapt to the rigorous tactical demands of Italian football.

Fast forward to the current campaign, and the Serbian international has undeniably transformed into one of the most improved and dominant figures in Serie A.

Commanding the left side of Milan’s backline, Pavlović has racked up 35 appearances across all competitions, showcasing an imposing physical presence while contributing valuable attacking impetus with four goals and an assist.

Man United remain committed to acquiring elite, left-sided defensive profiles who can combine rugged aerial dominance with progressive ball-carrying abilities.

Red Devils face competition from Crystal Palace

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace’s early probing highlights their ambitious recruitment strategy, aiming to secure premium European talent before market valuations spiral completely out of reach.

Despite the growing external noise, AC Milan’s current public stance is uncompromising. The club views Pavlović as an indispensable pillar to build around for the future, firmly valuing him at a base floor of €40 million to €50 million.

Contractually, the Italian giants hold total leverage, Pavlović’s existing agreement runs until the summer of 2028, complete with a club option to extend the deal for an additional season.

However, reliable Italian insiders suggest that Milan’s absolute resolve could eventually be tested by their collective finish to the season.

Should the club suffer a disastrous failure to secure lucrative Champions League qualification, the hierarchy at Via Aldo Rossi may be forced to reluctantly reconsider their non-negotiable stance to balance the books.