Santiago Gimenez Dismisses Exit Rumours as AC Milan Continue Striker Search

AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez commits future to San Siro despite summer transfer talk

In the fast-moving world of football transfers, clear statements from players are a rarity. So when AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez took the microphone ahead of Mexico’s Gold Cup triumph over the United States, it was refreshing to hear something firm. No cryptic messages. No vague gestures. Just an honest, heartfelt declaration: “I feel at home at Milan.”

Despite recent whispers linking him with a swift departure from San Siro, the 24-year-old made it clear—he’s going nowhere.

AC Milan’s new No.9 refuses to be unsettled

Gimenez arrived at AC Milan only six months ago, completing a €32 million move from Dutch side Feyenoord in January, with an additional €3 million included in performance-related bonuses. Since then, he’s hit the ground running, notching six goals and three assists in just 19 Serie A appearances. For a player adjusting to a new league, language, and tactical system, that’s more than respectable.

But as Milan prepare for what they hope will be a Serie A title-challenging campaign under Massimiliano Allegri—who returns to the Rossoneri helm after Stefano Pioli’s departure—the club has made no secret of its intention to strengthen the forward line. That’s led to speculation about whether Gimenez’s role might be reduced or if he could be moved on altogether.

The player’s response? Calm. Committed. And confident.

“I’m living a dream,” Gimenez said during a press conference ahead of Mexico’s 2-1 victory over the USMNT at the Gold Cup final. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be at a club like Milan. There have been rumours of a possible farewell, but I’m fine here. I spoke with the management and the staff. The idea is to stay. I’ll try to give my best. I don’t want to waste this opportunity.”

A future built on trust

Santiago Gimenez

Gimenez’s comments weren’t just about squashing transfer talk—they spoke to a deeper connection he already feels with the Rossoneri. “I feel at home,” he reiterated. That phrase might seem routine to some, but coming from a player who’s only been in Milan for half a season, it reflects a bond forming both on and off the pitch.

For Milan, it’s equally reassuring. Though they continue to explore options in the market—Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic and Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface are two names under consideration—Gimenez’s presence gives the club breathing room. They don’t need to panic-buy. They already have a forward who’s shown he can contribute, adapt, and improve.

That’s exactly what Milan’s new manager Allegri will be hoping to hear as he begins evaluating the squad in pre-season. He’s a coach known for making the most of versatile attacking players—and Gimenez, with his intelligent movement, work rate, and sharp finishing, ticks many of the boxes.

An international breakthrough adds to the buzz

Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan looks on during

If Gimenez’s start in Serie A showed promise, his international form has cemented his upward trajectory. Mexico’s dramatic 2-1 win over the United States in the Gold Cup final marked not just another trophy for El Tri—it was Santiago Gimenez’s first international title, and he played a pivotal role in their journey to the top.

The timing of his statement to stay at Milan—on the heels of that continental triumph—feels symbolic. A young player reaching a new level of confidence, ambition, and maturity. His stock is rising, and he’s backing himself to take the next steps in Italy, not elsewhere.

For Gimenez, the next challenge is consistency. A full pre-season under Allegri’s system, the chance to build chemistry with teammates, and the physical development needed for the rigours of Italian football—all of it points to a crucial second season ahead.

What next for Milan in the striker market?

Even with Gimenez committing his future, Milan aren’t standing still. The club’s recruitment team continues to explore other forward options, in part to offer depth, but also to ensure they have a top-tier squad capable of competing on multiple fronts—including the Champions League.

Vlahovic, while an elite goal scorer, would require a significant financial outlay and could involve a complex negotiation with bitter rivals Juventus. Boniface, meanwhile, has had an explosive season in Germany and brings a more physical, robust style that could complement Milan’s existing attacking pieces.

But crucially, Santiago Gimenez’s presence gives Milan leverage. They don’t need to rush. They can wait for the right player, on the right terms, knowing they already have a hungry, talented striker ready to contribute.

More than just numbers

In today’s data-driven game, players are often reduced to goal tallies, heatmaps, and xG charts. But what makes Gimenez stand out—beyond his contributions on the pitch—is his attitude.

He’s not asking for guarantees. He’s not shying away from competition. He’s not making ultimatums. He’s simply stating that he wants to stay, improve, and fight for his place.

That mindset is invaluable at a club like Milan, where expectations are sky-high and competition is fierce.

Final thoughts: Commitment counts

As the transfer window buzzes with rumour and speculation, Santiago Gimenez’s clear, grounded stance stands out. His message to Milan, its fans, and to himself is simple: he’s here for the long haul.

And while the Rossoneri may yet bring in another striker, they know they’ve already got one who bleeds red and black—and isn’t afraid to say it.