Quick Read
- AC Milan finalizes a €20M deal for Genoa’s Koni De Winter.
- The transfer follows Malick Thiaw’s €40M move to Newcastle United.
- De Winter was also pursued by Inter Milan but chose the Rossoneri.
- The 23-year-old Belgian defender adds versatility to Milan’s defense.
- Medical tests and contract signing are expected early next week.
AC Milan has made a decisive move in the summer 2025 transfer window by finalizing a €20 million deal with Genoa for Belgian central defender Koni De Winter. This acquisition comes in response to the departure of Malick Thiaw, who has been sold to Newcastle United for a reported fee of €40 million, including bonuses.
Milan’s Swift Response to Thiaw’s Departure
Malick Thiaw, who joined Milan from Schalke 04 in 2022, has been a key player for the Rossoneri. However, with Newcastle United presenting an improved offer over the weekend, Milan decided to cash in on the German defender. According to Sky Sport Italia, the sale of Thiaw provided Milan with the financial flexibility to act quickly in securing a replacement, and their focus landed on Koni De Winter.
De Winter, a promising 23-year-old defender, had been plying his trade at Genoa. Known for his composure on the ball and defensive versatility, he was a target not only for Milan but also for their city rivals, Inter Milan. However, the Rossoneri acted decisively to ensure that De Winter would wear the red and black jersey next season.
Negotiations and the Final Agreement
Initial reports suggested that Genoa was holding out for a fee closer to €25 million, but Milan managed to negotiate the deal down to €20 million, including bonuses. Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement on August 10, tweeting, “Koni De Winter to AC Milan, here we go! Verbal agreement done with Genoa and player side. Package around €20m with clubs sorting final details then green light to medical tests in Milano early next week.”
Matteo Moretto of Sempre Milan added that the deal is essentially sealed, with only minor bureaucratic hurdles remaining before the Belgian defender undergoes his medical tests and signs a long-term contract with Milan. The speed of this negotiation underscores Milan’s determination to strengthen their squad before the new Serie A season kicks off.
Competition and Missed Opportunities
Inter Milan, who had also shown interest in De Winter, were reportedly disappointed to lose out on the young talent. According to FCInterNews, Inter had been monitoring De Winter as a fallback option for their defensive lineup. However, Milan’s swift action left little room for their rivals to make a competitive bid.
Additionally, Milan had been linked with other defensive targets, including Giovanni Leoni of Parma and Pietro Comuzzo of Fiorentina. But after initial evaluations, De Winter emerged as the ideal candidate due to his blend of youth, experience, and potential.
What De Winter Brings to Milan
Koni De Winter’s arrival is expected to bolster Milan’s defensive setup significantly. The Belgian defender has shown remarkable maturity and tactical awareness during his time at Genoa. His ability to play as a center-back or in a more advanced defensive role makes him a versatile asset for Milan’s head coach.
De Winter also brings international experience, having represented Belgium at various youth levels and earning his first senior cap in 2024. At 23, he is seen as a long-term investment for Milan, capable of anchoring their defense for years to come.
The signing aligns with Milan’s broader strategy of blending youth with experience, a formula that has worked well for the club in recent seasons. With De Winter in their ranks, Milan fans will hope to see a solidified backline capable of competing both domestically and in European competitions.
As the summer transfer window heats up, AC Milan’s swift acquisition of Koni De Winter demonstrates their ambition and readiness to adapt to changing circumstances. The Belgian defender’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter for the Rossoneri as they aim for success in the 2025-26 season.