Premier League clubs on alert as Milan plan defensive clear-out | OneFootball

Milan’s Defensive Overhaul: A Summer of Change Looms

AC Milan’s 2023/24 season has been a disaster for a variety of reasons, and as Calciomercato reports, defensive frailties have played a key role in their struggles. Now, with only Matteo Gabbia certain to remain, the Rossoneri face a summer of upheaval in their backline. Here’s a closer look at the situation.

Tomori on the Transfer List

Once a cornerstone of Milan’s defence, Fikayo Tomori has endured a woeful campaign. His performances have been riddled with errors, and his role has dwindled to that of a benchwarmer. “Tomori’s season has seen more lows than highs, to the point where the English defender has become a permanent fixture on the bench,” writes Calciomercato. Milan were ready to offload him in January, with Juventus and Tottenham showing interest, but no deal materialised. Now, the former Chelsea man is available for around €20 million, which could be tempting for clubs in need of defensive reinforcements.

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Pavlovic’s Uncertain Future

Serbian centre-back Pavlovic is well-regarded for his attitude and work ethic, earning him support from fans and the club alike. However, his season has been marred by costly mistakes. “His season has been plagued by technical mistakes that have cost Milan crucial points,” Calciomercato states. Discussions with Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray took place in January, but financial disagreements meant no move happened. His future remains in the balance, and while he has a better chance than others to stay, Milan’s decision will depend on the offers they receive.

Thiaw’s Inconsistency Raises Doubts

On paper, Malick Thiaw is Milan’s most complete defender. Physically dominant and technically capable, he has shown glimpses of top-tier ability. Yet, his inconsistency has been frustrating. “Malick alternates between top performances and moments where he looks completely out of focus,” as highlighted by Calciomercato. Milan are yet to officially place him on the market, waiting to appoint a new manager before making a decision. However, an offer in the region of €25-30 million could change their stance.

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Gabbia the Only Certainty

Unlike his teammates, Matteo Gabbia has shown steady improvement. His form has strengthened his case as a reliable defensive option, and Milan’s decision to extend his contract speaks volumes. “Gabbia remains one of the last true symbols of Milanismo in the squad,” Calciomercato notes. His place in the squad is secure, providing Milan with at least one dependable defensive option.

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Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Tottenham fans, this report makes for interesting reading. Spurs were heavily linked with Tomori in January, and with centre-back reinforcements needed, the €20 million price tag could represent value. While his form has dipped, Tomori has proven himself in the Premier League before and could thrive under Ange Postecoglou’s system, which demands pace and aggression from defenders.

As for Thiaw, he presents a different type of gamble. The German defender has all the attributes to succeed, but inconsistency is a concern. If Spurs want a project player with high potential, he could be worth a punt at €25-30 million, but they would need to be patient.

Pavlovic is unlikely to be of interest to Premier League clubs, given his struggles, but Milan’s willingness to move him on highlights their defensive struggles. Meanwhile, Gabbia’s rise suggests he is finally fulfilling his early promise, though he is now firmly off the market.

With Milan in full defensive overhaul mode, Tottenham and other clubs across Europe could benefit from their willingness to sell. Spurs need defensive depth, and this could be an opportunity to secure quality reinforcements for a reasonable price.