Chelsea chase Milan defender Koni De Winter as they eye a stronger Stamford Bridge

Journalist Mark Brus says Chelsea are in the running to land AC Milan defender Koni De Winter. The Blues will also have to outbid Manchester United and Liverpool for the 24‑year‑old Belgian next year. De Winter has impressed in Serie A, making 15 appearances for AC Milan this season and earning a reputation as one of the league’s top centre‑backs.

He is currently among Serie A’s most talented centre‑backs. His contract with AC Milan runs until the summer of 2030, meaning a cheap winter‑window move could be difficult for the Blues this season.

A pre‑season match in Perth on 5 August 2026 saw De Winter feature for AC Milan against FC Internazionale. What will De Winter bring to Chelsea?

De Winter’s defensive attributes

He is a strong tackler who reads danger well to win back possession. He often steps into the ball when opponents press and excels at playing out from the back. Standing 1.91 m tall, he can win many 50‑50 aerial duels.

Primarily a centre‑back, he can also cover at right‑back if required. There are doubts whether he can cope with the Premier League’s intensity if Chelsea sign him in 2027.

He is expected to add bite and steel to Xabi Alonso’s defence. De Winter could fight for a regular starting place at Stamford Bridge in the coming years.

At 24, his peak years lie ahead, making him a sensible choice for the West London club next season. Consequently, Alonso would be wise to move quickly for the defender.