Santiago Gimenezthe talented Mexican striker and USMNT star Christian Pulisics international rival, was heavily linked with a move to AC Milan during the summer transfer window. But despite the buzz, there was no deal. Now, with Milan looking to strengthen their attacking options in mid-season, Gimenez’s name has resurfaced in discussions of the winter transfer market. But there is a twist– Milan’s pursuit of the Feyenoord forward depends on a complex set of circumstances.
The Rossoneri have been on the hunt for a reliable striker to address their glaring lack of goals this season. Despite being linked with high-profile names such as Marcus Rashford and Joao Felix, financial constraints have forced the Rossoneri to consider alternative targets. Santiago Gimenez, with his consistent goals at Feyenoord, has emerged as the primary option.
“A need that has been underestimated over time and can now no longer be postponed” explained the Italian journalist Antonio Vitiello in a column for Milan News. “Milan is looking for a real striker – a goalscorer who can deliver even in tough matches.”
Gimenez’s impressive numbers make him an appealing choice. Since arriving at Feyenoord in 2022, the 23-year-old has netted 13 goals in 17 games this season and boasts a career average of 0.59 goals per game in Europe.
The catch: Financing the transfer
While Gimenez fits Milan’s profile for a much-needed goalscorer, acquiring him will not be easy. The Eredivisie side have expressed reluctance to sell their star forward mid-season and are demanding a hefty one 40 million euro transfer fee. For the Italian giant, careful financial maneuvering is required to meet this valuation.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello SportMilan’s ability to bid for Gimenez hinges on the offloading of two players—Emerson Royal and Strahinja Pavlovic. Serbian defender Pavlovic has attracted interest from several clubs, including Fenerbahce, who have submitted a 20 million euro offer. Emerson Royal, who came to Milan from Tottenham for 15 million euros, is being courted by Galatasaray and Fulham at the same time.
The San Siro outfit hope these sales will free up cash and salary cap space to launch a bid for the 23-year-old Mexican. If the sale does not go through, the Rossoneri may settle for a more economical option, such as a loan deal for a striker such as Chelsea’s Joao Felix or Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund.
Why Gimenez is the perfect target
Milan’s renewed interest in Gimenez stems from the club’s belief in his ability to thrive in Serie A. With an Italian passport and proven adaptability, the forward has been backed by key Milan figures, including CEO Giorgio Furlani and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“Gimenez convinces everyone, from [coach] Sergio Conceicao to Moncada and Furlani, Vitiello noted. “His arrival could solve a problem that has been going on at Milanello for far too long.”
In addition to his goalscoring prowess, Gimenez has also excelled as a complete player. In just 100 European appearances, he has made a dent 59 goals and 14 assistssurpassing legendary Mexican forwards such as Hugo Sanchez and Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez at comparable stages of their careers.
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