Chelsea identify DREAM solution to Enzo Fernandez problem

Cameron Smith

19 Dec 2025 14:58 GMT
4 min read

Chelsea and Manchester City have both reportedly sounded out Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlovic as a key transfer target for 2026.

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The Germany international has established himself as an integral figure at the Allianz Arena since the appointment of Vincent Kompany as the club’s new head coach and his form has attracted significant interest from the Premier League.

Current ETV

Aleksandar Pavlovic

DM (C)

Bayern Munich

Aleksandar Pavlovic

DM (C)

Bayern Munich

ETV Range

€51.5M - €63M

Manchester United were linked with a move for Pavlovic over the summer, however Ruben Amorim’s side opted against launching a full-blown pursuit and their interest appears to have cooled amid their desire to land Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba or Adam Wharton.

Chelsea and Man City, on the other hand, are now ready to target a deal for the 21-year-old in 2026, as per TEAMtalk.

It’s reported that Man City are scouring Europe for a possible long-term replacement for Rodri if the Spain superstar departs the club next summer and they have earmarked Pavlovic as the top candidate on the continent.

Meanwhile, Chelsea scouts have been left similarly impressed by the Germany star and they believe he could be an excellent addition to their midfield unit.

However, Pavlovic still has three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract at Bayern and the reigning Bundesliga champions are eager to tie him down to fresh terms next year, according to TEAMtalk.

As a result, any interested party may be required to submit an offer in excess of €114 million (£100m) in order to finalise a deal.

Chelsea eye Aleksandar Pavlovic deal

Chelsea’s interest in Pavlovic comes after it was reported by The Telegraph that Enzo Maresca’s side will sign at least one new central midfielder next summer.

The Blues currently have a plethora of options in the middle of the park, but injuries to both Romeo Lavia and Dario Essugo have dramatically increased the workload on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo so far this season, which is an issue the club are keen to address in 2026.

Kobbie Mainoo and the aforementioned Wharton are both appreciated by the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, while they have now added Pavlovic to their transfer wishlist as they look to secure the services of an elite central midfielder next year.

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