AC Milan is actively working to offload Santiago Gimenez this transfer window as the club seeks to raise funds following significant January spending. The Mexican forward, who arrived from Feyenoord for €30 million plus bonuses in February 2025, has fallen out of favour under the Rossoneri's current setup and is now a prime candidate for departure.
Lazio have emerged as serious contenders to land the 23-year-old striker, with manager Gennaro Gattuso keen to strengthen his attacking options. The Biancocelesti currently rely on Boulaye Dia and Petar Ratkov as their primary centre-forwards, leaving a clear gap in their striking department. While Carlos Espì of Levante was Lazio's initial target, his €25 million release clause and Premier League interest pushed the Rome club toward alternative solutions.
Financial Framework Takes Shape
Gimenez's contract at Milan runs until June 2029 with an annual cost of €11.3 million including salary and amortisation. To avoid recording a capital loss on the books, Milan require a minimum fee of approximately €20 million, though this threshold could shift if the clubs structure a loan with an obligation to buy. The Mexican's gross annual salary of €4.6 million represents a significant commitment that Lazio must accommodate within their break-even operating framework approved by the FIGC at the start of summer.
The improved relationship between the two clubs following the Mario Gila transfer to Milan has created fertile ground for negotiations. Gila's arrival strengthened ties considerably compared with recent seasons, suggesting Milan and Lazio may find common ground on a creative deal structure. However, Milan have shown reluctance to cover portions of Gimenez's salary, meaning any arrangement must work within Lazio's strict financial parameters.
Gimenez's Recent Form and Fitness Concerns
The striker last scored in Serie A on May 9, 2025, and his most recent goal in a Milan shirt came during a Coppa Italia match against Lecce on September 23, 2025. He is currently on holiday following Mexico's World Cup campaign, where he suffered a second-degree ankle sprain in the quarter-final against England. This is the same ankle that required surgical intervention in December 2024, raising questions about his fitness heading into the new campaign.
With Milan's priority firmly fixed on reducing the wage bill and generating capital from player sales, Gimenez represents a logical exit. His inability to establish himself as the primary striker at San Siro, combined with his injury history, makes this a natural parting of ways. Lazio's willingness to engage suggests a potential resolution could emerge before the window closes, though both clubs must navigate the financial complexities that currently complicate negotiations.
