Pavlović on the Market? The Rumours Doing the Rounds
As this transfer window heats up, another name continuing to circulate is that of Strahinja Pavlović, AC Milan’s Serbian central defender. Agents and intermediaries have suggested that, should a financially significant offer arrive, Milan’s management could seriously consider it. But let’s be clear from the outset: at this stage, Milan have no intention of selling Pavlović, who is considered a starter within the project.
The issue does, however, have a tactical logic beneath the surface. The Serbian defender’s physical and technical profile may not be the ideal fit for the system that Amorim intends to implement. As seen in the friendly against Celtic, Pavlović showed some difficulty, particularly in the build-up to the first goal conceded, where his reading of the situation was not at its sharpest — though this could also be attributed to fatigue and a heavy workload during this pre-season period.
The Defensive Profile Amorim Is Looking For
The Portuguese head coach favours defenders who are tactically intelligent, comfortable on the ball and capable of building play from the back. A rather different profile from that of Pavlović, who is a physically imposing centre-back with predominantly defensive traits. His powerful build and strong legs can, in certain moments, work against him in phases of play that demand quick transitions and precise distribution.
This is not to say that the Serbian lacks value — far from it. He proved himself to be a reliable and strong-personality defender on multiple occasions last season. But if Milan were to fully commit to Amorim’s high-pressing, aggressive defensive shape, the profiles sought in the defensive line may lean in a different direction.
The Priority: Don’t Sell Before Strengthening
It must be strongly emphasised that Milan still have several gaps to fill in this transfer window: a central defender, a left-sided winger, a central midfielder and a trequartista are all needed. Selling Pavlović before finding a suitable replacement would be a questionable decision, and the Rossoneri management appears fully aware of this risk.
Keeping an eye on potential departures is sensible, but the absolute priority right now is to strengthen the squad, not weaken it. Until proven otherwise, Pavlović is very much part of AC Milan, and his contribution will be a valuable one in the season ahead.
