Manchester City Eye Bayern Munich Starlet Aleksandar Pavlović as Midfield Successor
Manchester City, fresh off another period of domestic dominance, are reportedly already planning for the next phase of their squad’s evolution. According to sources in both England and Germany, the Premier League champions have identified Bayern Munich’s 20-year-old midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović as a potential long-term addition to their midfield ranks.
For City, the move would be in keeping with their philosophy of staying ahead of the curve. Pep Guardiola’s side, though still packed with world-class talent, is at a point where the club’s hierarchy is considering the gradual succession plan for key areas of the pitch. Kevin De Bruyne is now in his thirties, İlkay Gündoğan departed last summer, and while Rodri remains one of the most complete midfielders in world football, City are keen to ensure they maintain depth and future-proof their squad.
Pavlović’s Rapid Rise at Bayern
Pavlović has become one of the standout stories in the Bundesliga over the past year. After progressing through Bayern Munich’s academy, the midfielder seized his opportunity in the first team during the 2023/24 season. Calm on the ball, tactically disciplined, and already demonstrating leadership qualities beyond his years, Pavlović quickly earned the trust of Bayern’s coaching staff and fans alike.
His ability to break up play, combined with intelligent distribution and a knack for making the right decision under pressure, has led to comparisons with some of Europe’s most refined holding midfielders. Bayern, who are under no financial pressure to sell, view him as a cornerstone of their next generation. That makes City’s interest all the more significant—and potentially complicated.
Why City Want Him
Pep Guardiola has always placed particular emphasis on midfield control, and Pavlović’s profile fits neatly into the kind of player City target. Still only 20, the Serbian-born German international has years of development ahead of him, and working under Guardiola could accelerate his growth.
City’s sporting director Txiki Begiristain is said to be closely monitoring Pavlović, with scouts regularly attending Bayern fixtures to assess his consistency at the top level. Guardiola, who previously managed Bayern Munich, remains deeply connected to developments at the Bavarian club, and it is understood he has been made aware of Pavlović’s progress.
The Premier League side are mindful of the challenges ahead. Liverpool and Real Madrid have also been linked with the youngster, while Bayern remain determined to extend his contract. But City’s track record of persuading Europe’s brightest talents to join their project could give them an edge.
The Bayern Perspective
From Bayern’s standpoint, Pavlović represents not only a footballing asset but also a symbolic one. With the club often criticised in recent years for lacking a strong flow of academy graduates into the senior team, Pavlović is proof that their youth system can still deliver. Losing him so soon after his breakthrough would be seen as a major setback, both on and off the pitch.
Bayern have already begun discussions over a contract extension designed to ward off outside interest. Reports in Germany suggest the club is prepared to make Pavlović one of the best-paid young players in the Bundesliga to secure his commitment.
A Long-Term Gamble for City
For Manchester City, the pursuit of Pavlović is about more than next season—it’s about the next decade. They know that securing elite midfielders at a young age allows them to integrate seamlessly into Guardiola’s system before taking on starring roles. The potential arrival of Pavlović would also ensure continuity once players like De Bruyne eventually phase out of regular action.
Of course, negotiations would be far from straightforward. Bayern are under no obligation to sell, and Pavlović himself may prefer to establish himself as a mainstay at the Allianz Arena before considering a move abroad. But City’s interest highlights their proactive approach to squad building.
Conclusion
Aleksandar Pavlović is still at the dawn of his career, yet his maturity and talent have already captured the attention of Europe’s elite. Whether Manchester City can lure him away from Bayern remains uncertain, but their pursuit underscores one truth: the Premier League champions are never content to stand still. With Pavlović, City see the chance to secure a midfield linchpin for years to come—and they rarely let such opportunities slip by.
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