FC Porto secured the signing of striker Santiago Giménez on a loan deal from AC Milan, according to reports detailed by Notícias ao Minuto on September 1, 2026. The agreement includes a fixed purchase option of 18 million euros plus two million euros in performance-based objectives, which can become mandatory if specific sporting targets are met. AC Milan will retain a 10 percent cut of any future transfer fee if the purchase option is exercised.
The Negotiation Timeline and Father’s Account
According to Christian ‘Chaco’ Giménez, the player’s father, negotiations with FC Porto spanned roughly 20 days. Speaking on FOX Sports, the elder Giménez noted that the Portuguese club emerged as one of the early suitors for the Mexican forward.
“This negotiation dragged on quite a long time but, fortunately, ended well,” Christian ‘Chaco’ Giménez stated on FOX Sports. He added that AC Milan faced a situation where, if Santiago failed to find another destination, he risked remaining six months without playing. That prospect created mounting desperation as the transfer window deadline approached.
Evaluating the Move to Portugal
Despite interest from other teams, the decision to join FC Porto relied on multiple sporting factors, according to the player’s camp. Christian ‘Chaco’ Giménez explained that the family evaluated coaching staffs, tactical setups, offensive variants, and participation in the UEFA Champions League.
He added that the transfer to FC Porto represents a positive step forward because the squad competes for the domestic league title and plays in the Champions League.
Physical Struggles During the Milan Stint
During his time in Italy, Santiago Giménez made nine appearances for AC Milan. According to his father, the 25-year-old striker played through physical injuries because other forwards in the squad were sidelined.
“He didn’t want to stop because he was a starter,” Christian ‘Chaco’ Giménez revealed on FOX Sports, noting that the player resorted to placing two tablets under his tongue to manage pain during matches. Across his career, the Mexican forward has recorded 99 goals, including eight goals and two assists in 12 Champions League appearances.
Squad Updates and Additional Reinforcements
Alongside the arrival of Santiago Giménez, FC Porto welcomed back French midfielder Seko Fofana on a loan deal. According to Notícias ao Minuto, Fofana, along with new arrivals Giménez and João Souza, participated in traditional squad initiation rituals by passing through the club’s training tunnel on September 1, 2026.
Did you know? Santiago Giménez has scored eight goals in 12 career UEFA Champions League matches, according to data shared by his representatives during the transfer process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the purchase option for Santiago Giménez?
According to reports, FC Porto secured an option to buy the striker for 18 million euros in fixed fees, plus two million euros in performance-based variables.
What percentage does AC Milan retain on a future transfer?
AC Milan will receive 10 percent of any future transfer fee if FC Porto exercises the purchase option.
Which other player returned to FC Porto alongside Giménez?
French midfielder Seko Fofana rejoined FC Porto on loan, participating in training alongside Giménez and João Souza, according to Notícias ao Minuto.
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