Milan’s negotiations to secure Emerson Royal from Tottenham have hit roadblocks, prompting considerations to replace the Brazilian right-back with Strahinja Pavlovic.
Increasingly, sources in Italy report Milan’s discussions with RB Salzburg’s Pavlovic, who reportedly favors a €1.5 million annual contract with the Rossoneri.
Initially, Milan planned to pursue Pavlovic following the potential departure of another central defender, ideally Malick Thiaw to Newcastle.
However, difficulties in finalizing terms for Emerson Royal and early tests under coach Paulo Fonseca at Milanello may sway Milan towards prioritizing Pavlovic.
Fonseca has utilized Pierre Kalulu as a right-back in initial training sessions, suggesting a potential competition between Kalulu and Davide Calabria for the starting role on the right flank next season.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Fonseca outlined his defensive strategies for Milan, emphasizing Kalulu’s versatility across different defensive roles. He also highlighted the need for balance by occasionally deploying a more defensive-minded right-back alongside attacking full-back Theo Hernandez.
Both Gazzetta and Sky Sport Italia affirm that Pavlovic is gaining precedence over Emerson Royal in Milan’s transfer plans.