Manchester United Eyes Defensive Reinforcements This Summer

Manchester United are expected to be active during the summer transfer window, with defensive reinforcements still a possibility despite improvements under Michael Carrick in recent months.

Ayden Heaven has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Old Trafford, already winning a Manchester United Player of the Month award this season after several impressive displays in the first team.

There are still concerns over depth, though.

Leny Yoro has struggled with injuries at points this season, while Lisandro Martinez only recently returned after a lengthy spell out.

Defensive depth is still viewed as an area Manchester United could strengthen this summer despite Heaven’s emergence.

United have also monitored younger defensive options.

Manchester United were recently linked with Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh, although the defender is now understood to have a verbal agreement in place with FC Koln ahead of a potential move.

Now, though, United appear to be stepping up interest in a more established option in Europe.

Manchester United Leading Race for AC Milan Defender

According to Sport Witness, Manchester United are now ‘above all’ in the race to sign AC Milan centre-back Strahinja Pavlovic.

The report claims the Serbian international has emerged as one of Milan’s standout players this season following a difficult first campaign in Italy during the 2024/25 season.

Under Allegri, Pavlovic has developed into a key figure at the back and has reportedly attracted growing Premier League interest, with Chelsea also linked previously.

However, it is Manchester United who are currently described as leading the race.

AC Milan are said to be determined to keep the defender.

However, their situation could change depending on whether they qualify for the Champions League.

The Italian side are currently facing uncertainty after a disappointing run of form.

Fan protests have been taking place against the club’s ownership in recent weeks.

Pavlovic’s performances this season help explain the growing interest.

The defender has scored five Serie A goals this campaign despite playing at centre-back.

He has also impressed physically, winning 158 duels and recording 65 aerial duel wins in league action.

His ball-carrying ability has also stood out, completing 15 successful dribbles while maintaining a passing accuracy above 90%.

At 24 years old, Pavlovic fits the profile of a defender entering his prime years while still having room to develop further under Carrick at Manchester United.