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Manchester City to battle Manchester United for Bundesliga star

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 17, 2025 12:05 PM ET

Manchester City enter the race for Manchester United transfer target Alexandar Pavlović

Manchester United’s growing interest in strengthening their midfield continues to ripple across England. They need a quality defensive midfielder due to Casemiro’s waning impact, and Manuel Ugarte not settling in Amorim’s system. The Red Devils have already made their first contact with Aleksandar Pavlović.

Now, it seems like Manchester City have shifted their focus to yet another United target, Pavlović. Pep Guardiola and his staff have turned their attention to the Bayern Munich midfielder. Spanish outlet Fichajes report that City are closely watching the 21-year-old. Guardiola sees him as a key part of his next midfield rebuild.

The Catalan coach has made his plan clear. He wants to bring in fresh energy, maintain technical balance, and add tactical intelligence to his squad. Guardiola aims to ease the pressure on senior players who struggle with fatigue in the Premier League, domestic cups, and Europe, and Pavlović will be a wonderful acquisition for him.

The 21-year-old’s precise passing, strong positioning, and composure in transitions reflect the qualities Guardiola values most. City’s scouts continue to monitor his performances. They notice how calmly he handles the ball under pressure and how effectively he presses high to win possession. However, Manchester City will face strong competition.

Chelsea, Liverpool, and United are all chasing him, and each club believes that his versatility can fill gaps in their team. In England, doubts over some midfielders’ futures have pushed clubs to search for players like Pavlović. He is a kind of midfielder who will bring both defensive cover and creativity. Bayern Munich, though, refuse to sell him. They view him as a long-term asset and an essential part of their plans. Any potential deal will demand a big offer and firm guarantees about his role.

Pavlović’s decision and the City project

Pavlović holds a contract with Bayern Munich until 2029, which gives the German club firm control in negotiations. His future depends on three things: contract terms, salary, and playing time. If Manchester City decide to make a move for the defensive midfielder, they must present a clear sporting plan and offer fair pay. Guardiola never signs a player without defining his role. Pavlović must prove he can handle the physical and mental demands of City’s football.

The young German midfielder will probably decide based on where he believes he can grow faster under Guardiola or by staying at Bayern. If City convince him with their project and promise him regular minutes, Pavlović could become a key figure in their next chapter. Yet Bayern intend to fight hard to keep him. The tug-of-war will continue for some time, and Pavlović’s next move could decide which English giant gains the upper hand in the coming seasons. However, if City enter the race confidently, it will be unlikely that Ruben Amorim will get him. What do you think, United fans?

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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