West Ham United could knock on Juventus’ door for young defender Koni de Winter in the summer after an impressive loan spell with Empoli.
Juventus could ponder the future of young defender Koni de Winter ahead of the summer window. According to Calcio Mercato, the 20-year-old Belgian defensive prodigy is a target for West Ham United, who might approach to sign the rising star.
Juventus have learned from their past mistakes by sending promising defenders out on loan and then losing them on the cheap. The most recent example could point towards Cristian Romero, who Atalanta signed for a minimal fee after a successful loan spell and then cashed in by selling him to Tottenham.
When they sent Belgian defensive prodigy Koni de Winter to Empoli, Juventus ensured there was no option to buy. The 20-year-old has had a terrific season, and in a recent game against them, he racked up some impressive numbers.
Hence, the door remains open for a return to Turin for De Winter, with Juventus set to decide on his future. The Belgian defensive prodigy wants to enter the national side and become a mainstay with the Bianconeri.
However, with some financial problems mounting at Juventus, they could look to sell the 20-year-old for good offers. Considering De Winter arrived on a free transfer, the Turin giants will make a full profit with his transfer. They reportedly turned down an approach from Southampton in January, but their stance could now change. Crystal Palace and West Ham were also linked with a move.
The report insists De Winter remains valued at €15 million in the current market. Such a sum could turn Juventus’ head about a sale, and West Ham are certainly in a position to pay such a sum. Much will depend on their chances to survive a relegation battle, which they might.
Even if they remain in the Premier League, players like Nayef Aguerd are attracting the attention of suitors, with Tottenham interested. Hence, De Winter could come in as a replacement for the Moroccan, and financially they could make a decent profit.
However, the decision will remain with Juventus over a sale, as they could consider integrating the 20-year-old into their plans. West Ham could force the issue with a decent offer and talk to the player about a move. De Winter could take the approach as a step in the right direction and make a mark in the Premier League.
He will continue to finish the season with Empoli and then return to Juventus. After that, the club and the player might decide on the future.
