Manchester United and Liverpool could go head-to-head in the race to sign AC Milan defender Koni de Winter when the January transfer window opens, with several Premier League clubs also keeping a close watch on the Belgian international. According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Sunday, November 8, 2026, interest in the centre-back is increasing as clubs begin assessing their options ahead of the winter market.

Manchester United have already begun outlining their recruitment strategy for January, with the club identifying several positions that could require strengthening. Defensive reinforcements and the addition of another striker are understood to be among their major priorities.

The Red Devils have recently stepped up their search for attacking options, with Ivan Toney and Vitor Roque emerging as potential targets. At the same time, the club's recruitment department has continued evaluating defenders who could improve the team's defensive stability.

Rayan Ait-Nouri has repeatedly been associated with a possible move to Old Trafford, while RB Leipzig's David Raum is another player reportedly on United's radar. Eintracht Frankfurt defender Nnamdi Collins has also attracted attention from the club's recruitment officials.

However, De Winter has now emerged as another potential defensive addition. According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing the AC Milan centre-back, alongside Premier League rivals Liverpool and Chelsea.

The report also identifies Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Leeds United and Brentford as clubs monitoring the Belgian's performances. Their scouts have reportedly attended matches to assess his qualities, suggesting that competition for his signature could become increasingly intense.

De Winter primarily plays as a central defender and has made 14 appearances for AC Milan across all competitions this season. His regular involvement under Ruben Amorim has helped strengthen his reputation and attracted attention from clubs outside Italy.

Manchester United previously explored the possibility of signing the defender in 2025 before he eventually completed his move to Milan. Their renewed interest suggests that the club still considers him a suitable option, although the growing number of interested teams could complicate any potential negotiations.

United's defensive weaknesses have become a major talking point this season, with Carrick's side conceding 12 goals in their previous five matches. Such performances have increased the pressure on the club to improve its defensive organisation and consider bringing in additional quality during the January window.

Although strengthening the left-back position is also believed to be under consideration, United have yet to establish whether their recruitment strategy will prioritise that area or focus more heavily on central defence. Their unsuccessful attempt to address certain defensive needs during the previous summer has made the upcoming transfer window particularly important.

Despite the growing interest in De Winter, the situation remains at an early stage, and Manchester United are not expected to make an immediate decision. The club is likely to continue monitoring the defender and evaluating alternative targets before determining whether to make a formal approach.

With Liverpool, Chelsea and several other Premier League sides also assessing his situation, United could face considerable competition if they decide to pursue the Belgian in January.