Pavlovic: the season’s revelation attracting Europe’s biggest clubs
One name has completely transformed AC Milan’s defensive setup this season, becoming far more than just another piece of the backline: Strahinja Pavlovic. The Serbian centre-back, born in 2001, is now a cornerstone of Massimiliano Allegri‘s Milan — and his performances have not gone unnoticed across the Channel.
According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, confirmed by multiple sources, Chelsea have initiated contact with the Serbian defender’s entourage ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window. The Blues, having endured a difficult campaign and in desperate need of defensive reinforcements after Colwill’s ACL injury, have identified Pavlovic as the ideal profile to rebuild their backline.
From Fonseca to Allegri: the making of a champion
His growth has been remarkable. Arriving in the summer of 2024 from Salzburg for around €18 million plus €2m in bonuses, the defender had a difficult first season under the dual management of Fonseca and Conceição. Allegri’s arrival changed everything: the Tuscan coach reshaped Milan’s defence into a back three, turning Pavlovic into a dynamic left centre-back with real attacking quality.
The results speak for themselves. The Serbian has been ever-present: 30 appearances across all competitions, recognised defensive leadership, and — crucially — a goal tally that would embarrass many strikers. Four Serie A goals, including the winner against Roma (1-0 at San Siro) and a thunderous long-range effort that clipped the bar before nestling in the net against Torino.
Chelsea offer €40m, Milan respond: not for sale
According to Calciomercato.it and Sport Mediaset, Chelsea are prepared to put around €40 million on the table — more than double what Milan paid just two years ago. A significant profit, without doubt. Yet Milan’s position is unambiguous: Pavlovic is not available.
The club’s management is building the defensive unit around a stable core of Tomori, Gabbia, De Vinter and Pavlovic, with one additional signing planned if needed. Selling a settled, improving player and chasing a replacement would cost time and resources the club prefers to deploy elsewhere.
Chelsea, of course, are a familiar negotiating partner for Milan: in recent years the two clubs have done business with players such as Giroud, Tomori, Bakayoko, Loftus-Cheek, Nkunku and Pulisic. This time, however, the Blues are sitting at the table with roles reversed.
Locking down Pavlovic to win
Losing Pavlovic at this stage would be a mistake Milan cannot afford. Recent history is instructive — the sales of Tonali and Reijnders left gaps that proved hard to fill — and the Serbian has all the attributes to remain a long-term protagonist at Milanello. At just 24, with a contract running to 2027, the club is working to extend and secure his future in red and black.
Sources: Corriere dello Sport, Calciomercato.it, Sport Mediaset, MilanLive.it, Pianeta Milan
