PAOK is stepping up its efforts in the final stretch of the transfer window, and all signs indicate that its moves are not yet complete. At Toumba, the club is working on two fronts simultaneously, with the acquisition of a forward remaining the top priority and shoring up the center of the defense now firmly on the table.
For the front line, the name of Mihailo Ivanović is once again at the top of the list. The 21-year-old Serbian forward from Millwall had caught PAOK’s attention earlier this summer, and his case remains particularly attractive due to his age, skills, and potential.
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Ivanović is coming off a productive season in England, having recorded nine goals and three assists, while his name has also attracted interest from other clubs. The major hurdle for PAOK is Millwall’s demands, as the English club is reportedly valuing him at around 11 million euros, a fact that makes this particular deal particularly challenging.
At the same time, PAOK is also considering a different type of forward. On the table is the option of a more experienced striker, with a proven track record and greater readiness to make an immediate impact. Thus, the final decision will also depend on whether the Thessaloniki club will invest in a young player with potential or turn to a more proven solution for the top of the attack.
At the same time, discussions regarding the acquisition of a center back are well underway. PAOK has been presented with a free agent center back who is being seriously evaluated, with team officials assessing whether he can immediately provide quality and more options in the back line.
This approach appears to align directly with the wishes of Alessio Lisi. PAOK’s coach reportedly prefers that, if another defensive signing is made, it be a center back rather than a pure right back. The presence of players on the current roster who can, under certain conditions, cover more than one position allows the Italian coach to focus primarily on adding more depth to the defensive line.
*photo source: CNA
