CM Back-up to an ex-Milan man: How Gimenez’s time at Porto is going and the terms of the deal

FolioPitch.com – 08 October 2026 | Santiago Gimenez‘s adventure at AC Milan never really took off, and there’s the risk of more complications at Porto too. The Mexican striker arrived in Italy in the 2025 winter transfer window from Feyenoord, and things started well before going downhill during a difficult period for the Rossoneri. His time was not helped by playing injured and then sitting out after undergoing ankle surgery. After a year and a half with little to show, he left Serie A and moved to Porto. As reported by Calciomercato.com, he went there at the request of Italian coach Francesco Farioli, who made several phone calls to convince the Mexican of his plans. This article delves into CM Back-up to an ex-Milan man how Gimenez’s time at Porto is going and the terms of the deal, providing a comprehensive analysis of the situation.

The deal is a free loan with an option to buy set at €18m, plus a possible €2m in bonuses tied to the player’s performances and the team’s results. The buy-out could also become mandatory based on Porto’s qualification for next season’s Champions League. It will also become obligatory if a certain number of appearances and minutes are racked up. So far, Gimenez has played three league and Champions League matches – all as a substitute – and scored a goal from the penalty spot against Casa Pia (Ruben Amorim’s former team).

Gimenez still lacks consistency, but Farioli is working to get him back to peak condition. For now, the Mexican is behind André Silva, also formerly of Milan. Currently, Silva is the starting central striker in Porto’s 4-3-3 formation. Despite this, the two will likely rotate up front, and the pecking order could change. Keep an eye on Samu Aghehowa too, as he’s returning to full fitness after tearing the cruciate ligament in his right knee last February.

The terms of the deal are quite specific and could have long-term implications for both clubs. Porto secured Gimenez on a free loan, which minimizes their immediate financial risk. However, the €18m option to buy, plus €2m in potential bonuses, represents a significant investment if they decide to make the move permanent. The conditions that trigger a mandatory buy-out are particularly noteworthy. If Porto qualifies for the Champions League next season, the buy-out becomes obligatory. Additionally, if Gimenez reaches a certain number of appearances and minutes, the buy-out also becomes mandatory. These clauses protect Porto’s interests while also giving them flexibility depending on the player’s performance and the team’s success.

Gimenez’s start at Porto has been modest. He has made three appearances in the league and Champions League, all as a substitute, and scored a penalty against Casa Pia. While it’s early days, the striker has yet to nail down a starting spot. André Silva, another former Milan player, is currently ahead of him in the pecking order. Silva leads the line in Porto’s 4-3-3, and his experience and form have kept Gimenez on the bench. However, the season is long, and rotation is expected. Farioli has shown faith in Gimenez by pushing for his signing, and he will likely give him opportunities to prove himself.

One factor that could influence Gimenez’s playing time is the return of Samu Aghehowa. The young forward is recovering from a torn cruciate ligament in his right knee, suffered last February. Once fully fit, Aghehowa will add competition for places, making it even harder for Gimenez to secure regular starts. This could pressure the Mexican to perform when given the chance.

From Milan’s perspective, the loan deal is a way to offload a player who didn’t fit into their plans. The Rossoneri will be watching closely, as any permanent transfer would bring in funds that could be reinvested. The €18m fee, plus bonuses, would represent a decent return for a player who struggled in Serie A. However, if Gimenez rediscover his Feyenoord form, Milan might regret letting him go. But for now, the focus is on Porto and whether Gimenez can revive his career.

In conclusion, Santiago Gimenez’s move to Porto is a fresh start for the Mexican striker, but it comes with challenges. He must adapt to a new league, compete with established forwards, and prove his worth to trigger a permanent move. The terms of the deal are structured to protect Porto, but also give Gimenez a clear path to stay if he performs. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Gimenez can turn his fortunes around and justify the faith shown in him by Francesco Farioli. For Milan, it’s a waiting game, with the potential for a financial windfall if the deal becomes permanent. Ultimately, this transfer saga highlights the unpredictable nature of football and the fine margins that define a player’s career.