In November, Sport Witness regularly covered Sunderland’s interest in AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez.
The Black Cats made contact for the player, who had a disappointing first half of the season. It was believed Regis Le Bris’ side have an advantage in the race, even if they were competing with Fenerbahce and Brentford.
Sunderland’s hopes of signing Gimenez suffered a blow soon after, as the player picked up a serious ankle injury. He was ruled out for three months and hasn’t featured since then.
Now, the forward is about to return to action and there might still be a chance for Sunderland to get him.
Premier League clubs still keen
TuttoSport assess the player’s future. It is clarified that next week, Gimenez will have a crucial medical check-up and it will determine when he can return to action.
There are encouraging signs that could even happen within days. Once the results of the medical are revealed, Milan will look to follow a fixed regime to bring him back as soon as possible.
While this will come as a boost, the Mexico international is still expected to leave in the summer. He hasn’t convinced Max Allegri about a role in his starting line-up, forcing Milan to sign Niclas Fullkrug in January.
Premier League clubs – presumably like Sunderland, are still interested.
Sunderland need €25m
The report also reveals Milan’s asking price, which stands at €25m. That is the minimum amount needed, with the Italian giants having spent €35m to land him in January 2025.
Earning €25m will make sure that Milan don’t incur too many losses.
In his first six months at the San Siro, Gimenez scored five times in Serie A and got two assists. Things haven’t gone to plan under Allegri but the Italian has always preferred taller centre-forwards anyway.
This indicates that the 24-year-old could yet be a significant option for Sunderland, if they chose to move for him.