AC Milan defender Koni De Winter performance and transfer

AC Milan defender Koni De Winter faced intense media criticism following a 2-4 home defeat against Bologna. Despite maintaining a 95% pass accuracy, reports highlighted defensive lapses, including losing possession eight times and winning only one of four ground duels. These struggles were linked to broader squad issues, as injuries to players like Matteo Gabbia and Fikayo Tomori have forced De Winter and Strahinja Pavlović to play consecutive matches without rest.

Following these performances, several Premier League clubs are reportedly monitoring the 24-year-old Belgian international. High-profile English sides including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea have been identified as primary suitors. Additionally, representatives from Newcastle United, Tottenham, Leeds United, and Brentford have reportedly attended matches to observe him. While De Winter is not currently seeking a transfer, his role in Ruben Amorim’s defensive system has made him a subject of internal discussion for clubs planning for the January and summer transfer windows.

Recent reports indicate that De Winter’s performances have improved under Amorim’s leadership, maintaining the interest of Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea. As of November 2026, De Winter has become a key component of Amorim’s defensive setup, starting all but one of Milan’s 11 Serie A matches this season. While Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea remain linked to him, some reports suggest they view him as one of many options rather than primary targets. Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are among the clubs actively tracking the defender, alongside Leeds United and Brentford. De Winter, who joined Milan from Genoa in 2025, is under contract until 2030. AC Milan is reportedly under no pressure to sell and would require a substantial offer to consider a transfer. In a significant career shift, De Winter has decided to resign from the Belgian national team.