Manchester United are already preparing for a huge summer transfer window after securing Champions League football for next season.
The club are expected to improve several positions in the squad, but defence looks like one of the biggest priorities for manager Michael Carrick.
Reports from Italy claim United are now seriously interested in signing Strahinja Pavlovic from AC Milan.
The Serbian defender has impressed many people this season with his performances in Serie A. Even though AC Milan has had an up-and-down campaign, Pavlovic has stood out as one of their most reliable players.
United scouts have reportedly followed him closely in recent months as the club looks for a strong long-term defender.
Pavlovic could replace Harry Maguire in the long run
At 24 years old, Pavlovic is entering the best years of his career.
Manchester United believe he has the physical strength, aggression and quality on the ball needed to succeed in Premier League football.
The defender is also very dangerous during attacking set pieces. He has scored five goals this season, which is an impressive return for a centre-back.
That attacking threat is something United have sometimes missed at key moments during the campaign.
The club are also thinking about the future of Harry Maguire. While Maguire has improved under Carrick, he is now in his 30s, and United know they must prepare for the next generation in defence.
Pavlovic could slowly become the long-term leader at the back.
Premier League move may tempt AC Milan defender
Playing in England is still seen as a massive opportunity for many footballers across Europe.
The Premier League is watched all over the world, and joining Manchester United remains one of the biggest moves a player can make.
That is why United are confident they can convince Pavlovic to move to Old Trafford.
Champions League qualification has also changed the mood around the club. Players now believe United are moving in the right direction again after a difficult few years.
Carrick has helped create a more positive atmosphere, and several players have improved under him already.
Young stars like Kobbie Mainoo have developed quickly, while experienced players such as Casemiro have also found form again earlier this season.
Now Carrick wants defenders who can play his style of football properly.
INEOS is pushing for a major rebuild
The new INEOS leadership are expected to back Carrick heavily in the transfer market.
Manchester United know they still sit behind clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City in the title race.
Because of that, multiple signings are likely this summer.
A centre-back is not the only target. United are also searching for a left-back and a defensive midfielder before the new season begins.
Injuries have caused major problems during the campaign, especially in defence. Lisandro Martinez missed large parts of the season, while Luke Shaw also struggled with fitness again.
Adding more depth and quality has become very important.
Pavlovic’s age, strength and experience make him a very attractive option for United’s recruitment team.
AC Milan may demand big money
AC Milan signed the defender for around €18million, but his value has increased hugely after his strong performances in Italy.
The Serie A club are expected to ask for a much bigger fee if they agree to sell him this summer.
Still, Manchester United have the financial power to complete the transfer if they decide to move forward seriously.
Supporters will now wait to see if official talks begin between the two clubs in the coming weeks.
There is already excitement around Old Trafford about what could happen this summer, and Pavlovic may become one of the first big names linked with Carrick’s new project.
If the move happens, United fans will hope the Serbian defender can become the next powerful leader at the heart of their defence for many years to come.
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