Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images
Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images
Tottenham Hotspur are looking to reinforce their backline in January, and AC Milan’s Koni De Winter ranks high on their wishlist.
The Jan Paul van Hecke-Micky van de Ven partnership has the makings of a solid one, with Spurs’ defensive record improving significantly over the last five matches, where they have conceded just three goals.
However, summer signings Marcos Senesi and Tosin Adarabioyo have not had much game time, and it appears that Roberto De Zerbi may not be entirely convinced about the pair.
This is because reports from Italy over recent days have indicated that Spurs are eyeing a move for Milan star Koni De Winter, who has established himself as a key part of the Rossoneri backline this term.
The Belgian international’s future has been dubbed as ‘one to watch’, but the Lilywhites are not the only English club after him.
Tottenham target Koni De Winter
Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images
Tottenham battling three Premier League clubs for Koni De Winter
TEAMtalk have now become the latest outlet to report on Tottenham’s interest in the Milan star, revealing that the North London club are closely monitoring the centre-back’s displays.
The report claims Spurs could face competition from Newcastle United, Leeds United and Brentford, who are all looking for defensive additions and have scouted De Winter recently.
Liverpool, Man United and Chelsea have been credited with an interest in the 24-year-old in the past, but the defender is not thought to be on their wish lists any longer.
De Winter, who has played in a back four as well as the right side of a back three for Milan, has caught the eye of Premier League clubs with his composure in possession and his aerial ability.
The defender’s blend of physicality and technical quality is thought to make him an attractive option for English clubs.
15 Appearances 11
1330 Minutes Played 964
6.65 Average Rating 5.90
0 Goals 2
24 Tackles 17
4 Blocks 10
23 Interceptions 10
66 Duels Won 66
22 Fouls Committed 11
5 Yellow Cards 2
0 Red Cards 0
Spurs would need to pay a ‘substantial’ fee to land De Winter
TEAMtalk point out that the centre-back is contracted to Milan until 2030 and has become a key part of Ruben Amorim’s set-up this season.
De Winter has started all but one of Milan’s 11 league games and is thought to be content with his role at the San Siro. The Belgian is thus not actively seeking a transfer in the upcoming window.
The Rossoneri view the former Genoa man as a part of their long-term plans, and it would thus take a ‘substantial offer’ to prise the defender away from the Serie A giants, who are currently sitting in fourth place.