Atletico Madrid’s last-ditch attempt to hijack Strahinja Pavlovic’s move to Milan has reportedly suffered an epic failure. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the sought-after RB Salzburg defender turned down the Spaniards’ approach as he ‘only wants’ the Rossoneri.
Pavlovic has emerged as Paulo Fonseca’s top target to bolster his backline. Despite finding common ground with the 23-year-old over personal terms, Milan remain stuck in negotiations with the Austrian heavyweights.
But they’re close to finding a breakthrough. After Salzburg wavered on their initial €25 million asking price, Milan hope to close the deal at €20m, including add-ons. Talks are progressing rapidly following Pavlovic’s rejection of Atletico Madrid’s offer.
Keen to join Milan, the Serbia international rebuffed Diego Simeone. The Argentine manager tried to lure Pavlovic to the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium to replace Mario Hermoso. However, he’ll need to cast a wider net to find a decent successor to the Spanish star, who could move to Serie A.
But while they’re making strides in their pursuit of Pavlovic, Milan must pay attention to their backyard. Malick Thiaw is again on Newcastle United’s radar. The Magpies had inquired about the German earlier in the summer and are now willing to lodge a concrete proposal.
Meanwhile, Milan sold prodigious center-back Jan-Carlo Simic to Anderlecht on Tuesday. The youngster’s exit could facilitate Thiaw’s stay, even though the Italian giants only made €3m from the 19-year-old’s transfer.
In addition to Pavlovic, Milan remain hopeful of signing Tottenham Hotspur fullback Emerson Royal. They’re reportedly confident of completing both deals in the coming days.
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