For €100 million: Manchester City reportedly wanted to sign a midfield star from Bayern Munich

Manchester City were reportedly very interested in signing Aleksandar Pavlovic from Bayern Munich.

Bild report that the 22-year-old was already on the Cityzens' radar in March, when they identified him as their top target for central midfield. City were willing to pay €100 million for Pavlovic, but he had no interest in leaving Bayern Munich for England.

By spring, it had become clear at City that coach Pep Guardiola was stepping down and Enzo Maresca would replace him. The Italian also tried personally to sign Pavlovic, but without success. Because the Germany international categorically ruled out a transfer, the English club did not make an official offer.

City completely rebuilt their midfield in the transfer window just gone. Rodri (to Barcelona), Bernardo Silva (to Real Madrid), Tijjani Reijnders (to Al-Qadsiah) and Nico Gonzalez (to Newcastle) all left the club. For a long time, the Cityzens had only Elliot Anderson (from Nottingham for €135 million) to show as a replacement, but shortly before the window closed they also added Ayyoub Bouaddi (from Lille for €95 million) and Enzo Fernandez (from Chelsea for €145 million). In total, City spent €375 million on players for central midfield alone.

Coming through Bayern's academy, Aleksandar Pavlovic made 44 competitive appearances for FCB last season. He scored four goals and provided two assists. He made his Germany debut in June 2024 and has won 15 caps so far.