Chelsea reportedly target AC Milan defender Strahinja Pavlovic as summer transfer window approaches
Reports indicate Chelsea are expected to make an approach for the 24-year-old, though AC Milan's priority remains extending his contract until 2031.
Chelsea are reportedly preparing to make an approach for AC Milan defender Strahinja Pavlovic during the upcoming summer transfer window. The move comes as the club seeks reinforcements at centre back, following a quiet January transfer window and defensive struggles throughout the current campaign.
The Blues have struggled defensively this season, largely attributed to the absence of Levi Colwill due to an ACL injury sustained before the campaign began. Consequently, the club failed to secure a replacement for the England international in January, with Jeremy Jacquet opting to join Liverpool instead.
According to reports, Chelsea are specifically targeting Pavlovic to address these defensive needs. The 24-year-old has made 34 appearances in all competitions this season while AC Milan sits third in Serie A. Chelsea have previously been linked with the defender and are understood to be monitoring him closely.
While Chelsea are set to make an approach in the coming weeks, AC Milan's primary objective is to extend Pavlovic's contract until 2031. His current deal runs until 2028, with an option for a further year, meaning the Italian side is prioritising squad stability over a sale.
Chelsea are also monitoring other centre-back options, including Murillo and Jan Paul van Hecke, as they seek reinforcements alongside a midfielder and an attacker. The specific financial terms of the potential deal or the likelihood of AC Milan accepting an approach while prioritising a contract extension remain unknown.
Reece James and Levi Colwill have recently returned to training and are expected to be available for the FA Cup final against Nottingham Forest. Despite these returns, the club continues to look for long-term solutions to their central defensive issues.
