AC Milan is ramping up its transfer activity, with head coach Paulo Fonseca set to welcome a couple of new starters before the weekend. The club is close to finalizing deals for defender Strahinja Pavlovic and Tottenham’s Emerson Royal. The negotiation for Pavlovic, who arrived in the city last night, is nearly complete, while discussions for Royal are also progressing well.
Additionally, Milan is actively looking for a midfielder to strengthen their starting lineup, with Fofana ahead of Koné in their considerations. It appears Milan is not just aiming for one signing but is hoping for a trio of new players.
Pavlovic is effectively a Milan player. He did not train with Salzburg yesterday, as the club stated he was given permission to negotiate with another team. Reports from Salzburg confirm that Pavlovic will be heading to Milan alongside his agent for a medical examination after the formal contracts are signed. Shortly after, Pavlovic confirmed to Sky that the absence from training was due to the transfer process, indicating that the transfer is almost done. The fee is expected to be around €20 million, including €18 million upfront and additional bonuses, though details regarding a potential sell-on clause remain to be finalized.
Meanwhile, discussions for Emerson Royal are heating up. Milan’s recent offer of €14 million plus a couple of challenging bonuses has brought the two sides closer to an agreement, but Tottenham is holding firm on a €20 million price tag. The situation may change soon, especially with the injury to Florenzi adding a spot on the roster and Royal’s eagerness to explore Serie A.
In terms of a midfielder, Fofana is set to resume training with Monaco on Thursday. Monaco recently signed Lamine Camara from Metz, but this will not free up Fofana, as they want another midfielder before allowing Fofana’s departure. He is keen on a move to Milan and has rejected a £35 million offer from West Ham, making Milan the front-runner for his signature, although the negotiations remain complicated.
Milan’s finances for Pavlovic are secure, but they will need to fund other signings through player sales. The message from Fonseca to Adli, who did not feature against Manchester City, is clear, but Adli has yet to agree to a move to Saudi Arabia. There are also rumors surrounding Thiaw, with reports of an agreement between Milan and Newcastle. However, Milan is holding out for €40 million for the German defender.
Finally, while a forward isn’t a pressing need due to Jovic and Camarda, if a substantial offer comes in for Jovic, Milan is prepared to reinforce their attacking options.