AC Milan Reach Agreement to Sign Koni De Winter from Genoa in €20m Deal

AC Milan have agreed to sign Koni De Winter from Genoa for about €20 million. A long-term contract is ready for him. Koni De Winter has agreed to join AC Milan on personal terms.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Milan and Genoa have agreed on a deal for defender Koni De Winter worth around €20m. Only a few details are left before he has medical tests in Milan next week. The Belgian will sign a long-term contract once everything is finalized. Milan decided to sell Malick Thiaw to Newcastle United for over €40m, which created funds and a spot in defense. As per reports, Milan’s manager, Massimiliano Allegri, is trying to keep Malick Thiaw despite Newcastle’s improved offer.

WHY MILAN CHOSE DE WINTER

The club chose De Winter over Parma’s Giovanni Leoni because he costs about half as much and has more experience. Reports say Milan think De Winter is a better fit for their defense, with a fee around €18-20m. Juventus, his previous club, will benefit from a sell-on clause since they sold him to Genoa in 2024. Inter and Premier League clubs were also interested, with Bournemouth and Inter Milan both wanting to sign Koni De Winter.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Milan are changing their defense after selling Thiaw to Newcastle. Signing De Winter gives them an experienced Serie A defender. Reports highlight the cost-saving move of getting a starter-level centre-back for less money. Milan also acted quickly to prevent rivals from taking De Winter.

FORM AND SEASON CONTEXT

De Winter was a key player for Genoa last season, having played 32 games and helping the team finish 13th in Serie A. His performance caught the attention of big clubs. Milan, aiming to challenge for the Serie A title and perform well in Europe, are strengthening their team after making money from Thiaw’s sale. Newcastle’s interest in Thiaw shows Premier League demand for Serie A defenders, while Milan aim to reinvest smartly.

WHAT NEXT?

De Winter is expected to arrive in Milan next week for medical tests. Once he signs, Milan will integrate him into their preseason and tactical plans. With the transfer window still open, Milan may consider adding more defensive players, but De Winter is set to replace Thiaw. Genoa, meanwhile, will decide how to use the money to improve their defense for the new season.