AliousWolves Lead Race for ‘Next Kompany’ as Premier League Rivals Circle for Belgian Defensive Star
Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly in pole position to sign highly-rated Belgian defender Koni De Winter as they look to bolster their backline ahead of the summer transfer window.
### **Defensive Struggles at Molineux**
Despite a recent upturn in form, Wolves have endured a challenging season defensively, conceding 52 goals in just 24 matches—one of the worst records in the Premier League. The arrival of Emmanuel Agbadou in January has brought some much-needed stability, with back-to-back clean sheets against Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers providing a glimmer of hope.
However, uncertainty looms over the future of club captain Nelson Semedo, whose contract expires in the summer. If he departs, Vitor Pereira will need reinforcements, making defensive additions a priority, particularly if Wolves secure their top-flight status.
### **Wolves Eye Koni De Winter to Reinforce Backline**
The Old Gold have now turned their attention to 22-year-old Koni De Winter, a rising star from Belgium who has been making waves in Serie A with Genoa. The former Juventus academy product initially joined Genoa on loan before sealing a permanent £6.8m move last summer.
De Winter’s versatility makes him an attractive prospect—while primarily a centre-back, he has also excelled as a full-back on both flanks and even operated as a defensive midfielder. His ability to drive forward with the ball, strong defensive awareness, and composure under pressure have earned him rave reviews.
With three goals in 13 league appearances this season, his performances have not gone unnoticed, leading to a senior call-up for the Belgian national team after previously representing his country at U21 level.
### **The ‘Next Vincent Kompany’ on Wolves’ Radar**
De Winter has drawn comparisons to legendary Belgian defender Vincent Kompany, a claim he embraces with confidence.
“All my life I have been told I play like Vincent Kompany,” De Winter told *The i Paper*. “I have this ability to make runs with the ball like he did, I have the same technical side. It’s a really big name, so I one day hope to be able to live up to him.”
Given Wolves’ longstanding interest—the club has been monitoring De Winter for 18 months—there is belief they could move decisively to secure his signature. However, they face competition, with West Ham United and Leeds United also eyeing a potential summer swoop.
If Wolves can fend off their rivals, De Winter could emerge as a transformative signing for Pereira’s defense, potentially forming the backbone of the club’s future alongside Agbadou.
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