Porto and AC Milan have resumed direct negotiations over Santiago Gimenez after the Italian club rejected an initial loan-to-buy proposal from the Portuguese side, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The discussions had previously stalled when Porto submitted an offer that included a €15m purchase clause. Porto attempted to make that clause compulsory, but only if certain performance conditions were met, with the obligation linked to the number of goals and appearances made by Gimenez.
That proposal was not accepted by Milan, bringing the first round of negotiations to an end. However, the two clubs have now reopened contact and are once again discussing the structure of a possible deal for the Mexico international.
The renewed talks indicate that Porto remain interested in bringing Gimenez to the club, while Milan are prepared to continue negotiations after rejecting the original terms. The latest discussions are focused on the conditions attached to a potential permanent transfer following an initial loan spell.
No agreement has been reached, and the details of the new proposal have not been disclosed. The central issue remains whether Porto can secure a purchase obligation that satisfies both clubs, particularly in relation to the goals and appearances required to activate the €15m fee.
Romano’s report says the contact is taking place directly between Porto and Milan. The clubs had been in communication before the initial offer was turned down, but their latest exchange represents a fresh attempt to find a formula acceptable to both sides.
For now, Gimenez remains the subject of negotiations rather than a completed transfer. The outcome will depend on whether Porto and Milan can settle the conditions surrounding the loan and the possible permanent move.
The development comes after Milan rejected the initial loan-to-buy structure proposed by Porto. That offer was designed to allow the Portuguese club to sign Gimenez temporarily, with the option or obligation to complete the transfer for €15m depending on his involvement and goals.
Porto’s attempt to tie the purchase requirement to those performance targets was the key point that prevented the proposal from being accepted. With direct contact now restored, the two clubs have another opportunity to resolve that disagreement.
Further talks are expected to determine whether the latest proposal can lead to an agreement. Until then, there is no confirmation that Gimenez will move to Porto, with negotiations still ongoing between the clubs.
