Milan sign Koni De Winter from Genoa for €20 million on deal until 2030
Belgian defender reunites with Allegri as direct replacement for Malick Thiaw
AC Milan have officially completed the signing of Koni De Winter from Genoa in a €20 million transfer, with the 23-year-old Belgian defender committing to the club until June 30, 2030. The move comes just days after Malick Thiaw’s departure to Newcastle United.
Transfer Details and Career Path
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, negotiations were swift, with Milan acting quickly to secure a replacement for Thiaw. De Winter, a product of Lierse and Zulte Waregem’s youth academies, has previously played for Juventus and Empoli before breaking through at Genoa, where he scored three goals last season.
Standing at 1.89m, De Winter is known for his versatility, able to operate as a centre-back, right-back, or defensive midfielder, combining strong passing range with tactical awareness.
Allegri’s Role in the Signing
Coach Massimiliano Allegri, who previously worked with De Winter during his time at Juventus, was instrumental in pushing for the transfer. With nearly 70 Serie A appearances to his name, the Belgian is expected to step straight into the starting XI and provide stability at the back.
Milan’s Strategy and Season Goals
The signing aligns with Milan’s transfer strategy of investing in young, proven players with potential resale value. The club is focused on building a solid defensive unit to challenge Inter Milan, Juventus, and Napoli in both Serie A and the Champions League.
Presentation and Possible Debut
De Winter will be officially unveiled on Thursday (14 August) and is set to begin training immediately. He could make his debut in the opening round of Serie A, adding depth and competition to Milan’s backline.
