Man United targeting Serie A defender ahead of summer exits – Whisper+ verdict

Man United targeting Serie A defender ahead of summer exits – Whisper+ verdict
Man United are keeping a close eye on De Winter - Photo by IMAGO

Latest developments

  • Man United keeping tabs on Koni De Winter ahead of summer transfer window.
  • Genoa looking to make a profit on last year's investment.
  • Red Devils eyeing new additions with two defenders set to leave.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (2.5/5): Man United monitoring De Winter

Man United are said to be among several European clubs keeping a close eye on Genoa centre-back De Winter ahead of the summer transfer window.

Caught Offside are reporting that Ruben Amorim's side are keeping a close eye on the Belgian defender, although they stopped short of providing further detail on Man United's pursuit.

Value (3.5/5): Genoa to make sizeable profit

Genoa are expected to demand anywhere from €30m (£25.3m) to €35m (£29.5m) to part ways with De Winter at the end of the current season.

On the face of it, Genoa's asking price appears to be fairly reasonable, but it represents a significant mark-up on the €8m (£6.7m) they paid to convert his loan move from Juventus into a permanent deal last summer.

Suitability (2/5): Risk with step up to Premier League

De Winter predominately plays as a centre-back, but he also has previous experience operating on the right side of defence. At 22, there is plenty of time for him to improve his game, although there may be some concern as to whether he can handle the step up to the Premier League.

The Belgian only made two senior appearances during his time with Juventus, meaning the majority of his playing career has been spent plying his trade in the bottom half of Serie A with Empoli and Genoa. The pressure of being a Man United player would represent a fresh but difficult challenge for the young defender.

Upgrade? (3.5/5): Could De Winter fill Lindelof, Evans void?

When Amorim's centre-back options are all fit, De Winter would have to compete with the likes of Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire for a starting berth.

While that could prove difficult, he might be a better option to provide strength in depth than Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans, who are likely to depart at the end of the season.

Logic (2.5/5): Doubts over De Winter

From the player's perspective, De Winter would surely jump at the chance to test his skills in the Premier League, even if Man United are in a difficult period at the moment.

However, Man United could have concerns about whether he has the attributes to help the club in their rebuild process under Amorim.

Whisper+ verdict: 14/25

De Winter could be a solid option to bolster Amorim's squad depth, but there are likely to be better options out there for Man United in the summer market.