Strahinja Pavlovic has been one of the bright lights for AC Milan this season and is now attracting Crystal Palace interest.
The Rossoneri have struggled over the past few weeks, winning three of six league games. This has led to them finding themselves in a European race weeks after being in a title race.
Amidst all of that, it is Pavlovic who has impressed most, despite the losses and poor performances. He has grown as a ball-carrying centre-back, adding value with his technical ability.
Sport Witness have covered Chelsea’s interest in the Serbian in 2026. In March, it was suggested that the Blues will make a major offer for him, with the player increasingly of interest in England.
Crystal Palace have now also emerged as a suitor for the defender.
Eagles have made initial moves
Gazzetta dello Sport go down a positive route when covering Pavlovic’s future at Milan. The defender attracts praise for how he has grown this season, especially as he was clearly a concern during the 2024/25 campaign.
This improvement hasn’t gone unnoticed, as Crystal Palace have made first moves to assess a possible summer deal.
Manchester United are also in the mix, with Milan having paid €18.5m to sign him in 2024. His value now sits at €40m, which is what clubs will have to shell out to sign him in the summer.
Milan wouldn’t want to let him go, as things stand. Pavlovic enjoys Max Allegri’s faith but he presents a significant capital gain. That will be especially important if Milan do not qualify for the Champions League.
With that looking possible for the Rossoneri, they may not have a choice in the summer. Then, €40m will become too much to resist for the San Siro club.
Deal will be interesting for Eagles
Crystal Palace and Milan have held discussions for Jean-Philippe Mateta in the recent past. It is a clear sign that there is a good working relationship between them, even if the Frenchman stayed in London.
This can prove important for Pavlovic, who has shown impressive athletic ability this season. He could do well in England, even if he has issues around concentration when put under pressure from a defensive standpoint.
He is still only 24 and can still grow further as a defender. Crystal Palace, as a result, can capitalise at the right time and Milan may not mind a sale either.
