Manchester United is in need of reinforcements throughout the squad this summer, particularly in the defensive line, where another defender may be acquired for Old Trafford.
Over the years, Manchester United has invested significantly in centre-backs.
The roster includes notable names such as Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro, among others.
The financial commitment towards De Ligt and Yoro could exceed £100 million when considering potential add-ons, especially following the appointment of Ruben Amorim in November.
Amorim employs a 3-4-2-1 formation, necessitating a variety of centre-back options to support his three-man defensive setup.
This situation may lead to additional signings this summer, particularly as Lindelof and Jonny Evans are expected to depart from United on free transfers.
Manchester United want Koni De Winter
United may be inclined to pursue center-backs capable of operating in wider positions, potentially those with full-back experience.
Utilizing full-backs on the flanks of a back three has become increasingly prevalent in contemporary football, as demonstrated by Noussair Mazraoui’s role under Amorim.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, United has expressed interest in Koni De Winter, a defender from Genoa who possesses experience as both a center-back and a right-back.
It is reported that Genoa acquired De Winter permanently from Juventus for a mere €8 million (£6.7 million) after he excelled during his loan spell.
Now, Genoa is seeking €30 million (£25 million) for De Winter, recognizing an opportunity to secure a substantial profit.
As expected, Italian clubs are showing interest, with Napoli and Roma eager to sign him this summer.
United is also mentioned as a contender in the race, alongside Tottenham Hotspur, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern Munich.
The interest in De Winter is evidently growing, and he could be a fitting addition to the right side of Amorim’s back three.
United target Koni De Winter profiled
De Winter, originally from Belgium, began his career with Lierse and Zulte Waregem before catching the attention of Juventus.
At the age of 16, he moved to Turin, where he made a significant impact within the club’s development program, although he only appeared in two matches for the first team.
Following a loan to Empoli during the 2022-23 season, De Winter has truly established himself at Genoa.
In 2024, he earned his first senior cap for the Belgium national team, with the expectation of many more to follow.
Former Genoa manager Alberto Gilardino remarked to Football Italia that De Winter possesses “incredible potential,” a sentiment seemingly echoed by Manchester United as the summer transfer window approaches.
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