AC Milan announced on Wednesday that 21-year-old Belgian defender Cony de Winter has signed from Genoa. The two sides have signed a five-year contract, valid until June 30, 2030.

The official also confirmed that De Winter will wear the No. 5 jersey at AC Milan.

De Winter joined Juventus' youth academy at the age of 16 and made his professional debut for the first team in the Champions League on November 23, 2021. He was loaned to Empoli and Genoa from July 2022 onwards, and was bought out permanently by Genoa in July 2024.

To date, De Winter has made 57 appearances for Genoa, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist.

According to multiple media reports, De Winter's transfer fee is €18 million plus a €2 million float, with 20% to 25% going to his former club, Juventus. His contract at Genoa was originally set to expire in 2028, and several clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Crystal Palace, Inter Milan, and Napoli, had previously expressed interest in him.

After completing the transfer, De Winter said: "I have mixed feelings in my heart, it's hard to put them into words. I don't know what to say. It feels unreal, like a dream."

“I hope to do well at Milan and gain more experience. Not everyone has the opportunity to wear the Milan jersey, so I will cherish and enjoy every moment.”

Talking about his impression of AC Milan, De Winter added: "AC Milan is a top club that needs no introduction. I watched Ronaldinho, Pato and Maldini play when I was a kid. Italy and Belgium are not far away, so there are many Belgian players in the club. Many great players have played here, and I have regarded it as a top club since I was a child."