Santiago Gimenez is set to leave AC Milan and begin a new chapter with FC Porto after the two clubs reached an agreement worth up to €20 million. The Mexico international will initially join Porto on loan, with the deal including an €18 million purchase option and a further €2 million in potential bonuses. The agreement also contains conditions that could turn the purchase option into a mandatory transfer, primarily depending on the number of appearances Gimenez makes for the Portuguese side.

The agreement was completed on Saturday evening following lengthy negotiations between the clubs. Gimenez had been informed that he was no longer part of Ruben Amorim’s plans for the new season, making a departure increasingly likely. Although discussions encountered difficulties at several stages, the inclusion of the appearance-based obligation eventually helped the two sides reach a compromise. The absence of a loan fee was another important element of the arrangement, allowing Porto to secure the striker while providing Milan with a potential permanent transfer in the future.

Porto represents an attractive destination for Gimenez, who has reportedly been keen on making the move, particularly because of coach Francesco Farioli’s strong appreciation of his qualities. The striker previously enjoyed a productive spell at Feyenoord before Milan invested more than €30 million to sign him in January 2025. His arrival in Italy initially generated optimism, but his progress was disrupted by injuries and eventually required ankle surgery in December 2025, affecting his consistency during his time at San Siro.

During his Milan career, Gimenez scored seven goals and provided six assists in 37 competitive appearances. Those numbers fell short of the expectations surrounding his arrival, but the move to Porto offers the 25-year-old an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and rediscover the form that made him highly regarded in the Netherlands. With Farioli expected to give him an important role, Gimenez will hope that a fresh environment and regular playing opportunities can help him return to his best level and potentially turn the loan into a permanent transfer.