Manchester United are continuing plans for a major rebuild this summer as the club look to fix several long-standing problems inside the squad.
Defence remains one of the biggest priorities at Old Trafford despite recent improvements under Michael Carrick.
United continue searching for more physicality, aggression and balance at the back. Also, there is still uncertainty surrounding the futures of several defenders.
The club also want a left-footed centre-back capable of playing out from defence. They want players capable of handling the physical demands of the Premier League.
Lisandro Martinez’s constant injuries have cause problems for United at the back. It is something they would like to address next summer.
Because of that, scouts have spent months monitoring multiple defenders across Europe ahead of the summer transfer window.
One player, in particular, has now emerged as a serious target after impressing consistently in Serie A this season.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Manchester United are now preparing a €40 million move for Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan.
The defender established himself as one of the standout performers in Italy. The 24-year-old reportedly fits exactly the profile United want for their defensive rebuild.
Milan still view Pavlovic as a crucial part of their long-term project and reportedly value him between €40m and €50m.
However, reports suggest missing out on Champions League football could eventually force the Italian club into difficult financial decisions later this summer. But United are not alone in the race.
Chelsea and Crystal Palace are also believed to be monitoring the Serbian defender closely ahead of the transfer window.
The report also claims Old Trafford chiefs want to move quickly in order to avoid a bidding war with Premier League rivals later in the window.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
