Manchester United are showing strong interest in AC Milan centre-back Koni De Winter, with the Belgian viewed as a potential replacement for Lisandro Martinez in the upcoming January transfer window.
Michael Carrick's side have serious defensive problems, having conceded 26 goals in 14 matches across all competitions this season ahead of their home Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.
Martinez publicly criticised the club's recruitment department in October, while his inconsistent form has fuelled talk of an inevitable departure from Old Trafford in 2027. United's hierarchy have consequently begun an active search for a new centre-back.
One of the leading candidates is the 24-year-old Belgium defender, who has won eight caps. Since joining from Genoa, De Winter has established himself in the Milan side under Ruben Amorim. According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool and Chelsea are also interested in him.
The Belgian's versatility makes him highly sought after in the transfer market: he has played successfully at right-back and as a defensive midfielder during his career. At Milan, however, he has settled in central defence, making 14 appearances in all competitions this season.
At 191cm tall, De Winter is considered an ideal candidate for the physical demands of the Premier League. Transfermarkt values the defender at €25 million (around £21.4 million). Newcastle, Tottenham, Leeds and Brentford are also among the clubs to have sent scouts to Serie A matches.
