Christian Pulisic has witnessed a significant rebuilding process at AC Milan this summer, with several new arrivals and key departures, including Malick Thiaw. With the German defender finalizing his exit from the club, Milan have reportedly moved swiftly to secure his replacement in a quick-fire deal.
Thiaw is set to join Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez as Milan stars departing in the 2025 summer transfer window, the first under Massimiliano Allegri since his return as head coach. In a deal worth $46 million, the defender is expected to join Premier League side Newcastle United.
Unlike other recent departures, Thiaw’s exit leaves Milan particularly thin in defense, with only Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, and Strahinja Pavlović as natural center-back options. With limited depth at the position, the Rossoneri have acted quickly to reinforce their backline.
Milan’s new adquisition
According to Fabrizio Romano, Milan are closing in on the signing of center-back Koni De Winter in a deal worth around €20 million. The club has reached a verbal agreement with both Genoa and the Belgian defender, with only medicals and final details left before the move becomes official.
De Winter had also been on Inter Milan’s shortlist, but the UEFA Champions League finalists were waiting to offload a defender before making a move. With no progress on that front, their city rivals pounced to secure the 22-year-old’s signature.
The Belgian was a key figure in Genoa’s 2024–25 campaign, making 26 appearances and helping the club avoid relegation. His only setback came from a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined between November and December. Now eager to join Milan, De Winter is just hours away from donning the famous red-and-black shirt.