Milan are preparing for a significant summer of player sales, with defender Filip Pavlovic currently considered the most likely to depart, according to reports in the Italian press. The club anticipates at least one major outgoing transfer following a season that saw Champions League qualification secured but ultimately fell short of expectations.
Milan have demonstrated a willingness to sell key players in recent seasons, notably Sandro Tonali in 2022 and Tijjani Reijnders last year. The club’s structure, both in terms of ownership and sporting direction, remains fluid, but a clear indication is that several players will be allowed to leave this summer. This approach follows a pattern established after their Serie A title win, where significant player turnover occurred.
The report identifies five players as potential candidates for a transfer, ranking them in order of likelihood. At the top of the list is Pavlovic, a Serbian defender who has featured intermittently for Milan. While the article does not specify potential destinations or fees, it suggests interest from clubs in other leagues.
Behind Pavlovic, Rafael Leão is listed as the second most likely departure, with the Portuguese winger attracting attention from Premier League clubs. Christopher Nkunku, Fodé Ballo-Touré, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek complete the list, in descending order of probability. Leão’s situation is particularly noteworthy, given his status as one of Milan’s most valuable assets.
Pavlovic joined Milan with potential but has struggled to consistently establish himself in the starting eleven. He has shown flashes of promise, but competition for places in central defence has been fierce. A move could benefit both the player, seeking regular first-team football, and the club, who could generate funds for further squad investment. The sale of Pavlovic would allow Milan to reshape their defensive options and potentially pursue alternative targets.
The potential departures reflect Milan’s ongoing need to balance financial sustainability with on-field ambition. Generating transfer revenue will be crucial as they look to strengthen the squad and compete at the highest level. The club’s willingness to sell key players, while potentially disruptive in the short term, demonstrates a long-term strategy focused on continuous improvement.
