Mexican forward Santiago Gimenez is the new signing for FC Porto for the 2026-27 season. The club confirmed the player's arrival on a loan deal from AC Milan on Monday, as reported by ESPN Soccer.
Gimenez, 25, signed a season-long loan agreement. FC Porto secured a permanent purchase option set at $23.2 million, which can be triggered at the end of the loan spell. The player leaves Italy after an 18-month stint with Milan, where he scored seven goals in 37 Serie A appearances.
Why did Gimenez choose Porto?
Santiago Gimenez explained that the decision to join FC Porto was made to kick-start his career. The forward highlighted the importance of feeling valued and continuing his development at a major club. "It was a very important decision because I want to continue writing my own story and feeling important," said Gimenez. "Throughout my career, I've always played for great teams, and FC Porto is another one of them."
FC Porto offers the player the immediate opportunity to compete in the Champions League. The team leads the Primeira Liga with 12 points from four wins in four games, boasting a +9 goal difference. The leaders hold a two-point advantage over Sporting CP. Their first European challenge is scheduled for September 8 at home against Manchester City.
What is the player's recent trajectory?
Santi Gimenez transferred from Feyenoord to AC Milan in January 2025 for $43 million. In the Netherlands, the Mexican built a reputation as a prolific scorer, netting 65 goals in two-and-a-half seasons. His adaptation to Italy did not go as planned, which prompted the search for a new challenge in this transfer window.
FC Porto has been monitoring the market for several weeks to strengthen its attacking sector. Gimenez's arrival addresses that need, adding international experience and finishing ability to the squad led by Sérgio Conceição. Fans can check the updated squad composition on the club's official squad page.
What is Porto's current context?
FC Porto starts the 2026-27 season in strong form, with a winning streak the team aims to extend. The next fixture is this Friday, September 4, against Moreirense at the Estádio do Dragão. The opponent currently sits 10th in the league table.
This defensive and offensive solidity, with nine goals scored and none conceded, provides an ideal framework for the new striker's integration. The team prepares for an intense run of games, including the European clash with City and several domestic league fixtures. The full schedule is available on our fixtures page.
The loan signing of Santiago Gimenez represents a calculated risk for FC Porto. The club is investing in a proven talent who needs to rediscover his best form. If the player meets expectations, the Dragons could make the move permanent next summer. The loan was made official on Monday, September 1, 2026.
