Santiago Gimenez has joined FC Porto on loan from AC Milan for the rest of the season, the Portuguese club announced on Monday.
The deal includes an option for Porto to buy the striker permanently for 18 million euros, with additional performance-related bonuses of up to 2 million euros. The purchase clause will become mandatory only if Gimenez achieves specific sporting objectives, including a minimum number of match appearances. Should the option be exercised, AC Milan will retain a 10 percent sell-on fee for any future transfer.
Speaking during his official presentation alongside the FC Porto president, Gimenez said he enjoys enabling supporters to celebrate goals and described scoring as his main strength. He characterized himself as a fast and powerful forward who likes to exploit space behind opposition defenses, adding that he brings a blend of Mexican and Argentine grit. The striker pledged to give his life for the club and leave everything on the pitch.
The forward added that he wants to continue writing his own history after representing major clubs throughout his career. He described Porto as another prestigious stage that will contribute significantly to his career, expressing a desire to build strong chemistry with his teammates and fans while competing for trophies.
Performance record and Milan stint
Gimenez arrives in Portugal seeking to revive his career following a difficult spell in Serie A. AC Milan signed the striker from Dutch club Feyenoord in January 2024 for 35 million euros, but he struggled for consistency in Italy, scoring seven goals in 37 matches across all competitions.
His time in Milan was further hampered last season by a right ankle injury that required surgery and kept him out of action for five months. Prior to his move to Italy, Gimenez enjoyed a prolific period at Feyenoord, scoring 65 goals in 105 games across two and a half seasons in Rotterdam.
Deniz Gul departs for Galatasaray
The arrival of Gimenez prompted Porto to sanction the departure of striker Deniz Gul. The forward is returning to Turkey to join Istanbul side Galatasaray in a permanent transfer that will yield around 11 million euros for the Portuguese club.
Joao Souza arrives to cover left-back injury
Porto have also strengthened their defense by bringing in 20-year-old Brazilian defender Joao Souza on loan from English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. Souza arrived on Monday aiming to secure an immediate starting spot on the left side of defense following a major injury to regular starter Zaidu Sanusi, who has been ruled out for at least two months.
Souza is set to sign a loan agreement until the end of the season without a purchase option, with Porto responsible for paying his wages. The defender had long been monitored by Porto's scouting department dating back to his time playing for Brazilian club Santos, and is currently awaiting final official confirmation of his move.
