West Ham United Interested In 23 Year Old Belgian Defender: Will He Be A Good Signing? | OneFootball

Few in Italy were betting on Koni De Winter when he left Juventus. The young Belgian found space at Genoa and soon made a name for himself. Now, at the age of 23, he is on the agenda of several English clubs looking to reinforce their rearguard. According to a report from i News, Tottenham Hotspur are keeping a close eye on the defender, determined to strengthen their defence this summer. However, they are not alone in this race. The Londoners’ interest has been met with the attention of another club from the capital. West Ham, who are looking at the option of signing the Belgian for their immediate project.

West Ham join the bidding for Koni De Winter

A report from Gazzetta dello Sport via Sport Witness claims that West Ham have already contacted De Winter’s representatives. The Hammers’ board believe they need a strong reinforcement after an inconsistent season in defence. Jean-Clair Todibo and Mavropanos did not offer the desired reliability. With that in mind, the East Londoners are looking at paying Genoa’s £22million asking price to sign the defender. The Italians know the bidding could go up with Inter Milan eyeing the same player, but West Ham are looking to go ahead and offer him a project with minutes and stability in the Premier League.

Opinion: Would De Winter fit in at the Hammers?

We think West Ham have every reason to go for De Winter. He is young, quick and good with the ball at his feet, something Graham Potter needs in his centre-back. The club has shown glaring shortcomings whenever the central pairing fails. The Belgian has more than 50 Serie A appearances to his name and does not shy away from facing powerful strikers. Moreover, his price does not seem exorbitant considering the English market. If West Ham manage to convince him before Inter or Spurs push for him, they could close a good deal. The risk is in his physical adaptation to the Premier League, but his winning mentality and his growth in Italy suggest he will respond well. Today, signing Koni De Winter could be more than a purchase. It could be a step towards the defensive solidity the Hammers need to dream of Europe.