Lazio have turned their attention to Milan forward Santiago Gimenez as coach Gennaro Gattuso seeks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season. The Serie A side had initially prioritised Fluminense striker John Kennedy, but negotiations for the Brazilian have stalled, leaving Gattuso unenthusiastic about the alternative options presented to him.
According to reports, the Lazio coach identified Gimenez as his ideal target within days of arriving at the club’s Formello training base. Kennedy had occupied pole position on Lazio’s shortlist, yet the breakdown in talks forced a reconsideration of strategy. The appeal of the Mexico international lies in his proven track record rather than his recent output in Italy.
From Feyenoord prolific to Milan struggles
The 24-year-old endured a difficult campaign following his move to San Siro, managing only one goal in the Coppa Italia and none in Serie A. Injuries hampered his integration, while an ankle problem cut short his World Cup tournament with Mexico. Despite this downturn in form, Gattuso believes the forward’s attributes align with his tactical vision.
The coach appears focused on the player who scored 65 goals in 105 appearances across two and a half seasons at Feyenoord. Gattuso values Gimenez’s ability to link play, time his runs effectively and attack the box vertically, qualities he feels are distinct from other candidates previously considered.
Financial impasse
The primary obstacle remains economic. Lazio must operate at zero net spend, meaning a loan agreement represents the only viable path for Gimenez. Even then, the player’s €2.5 million net salary would require addressing. Milan, who invested over €30 million to sign the player from Feyenoord, prefer a permanent sale to recoup their outlay.
New Milan manager Amorim is building his forward line around club-record signing Goncalo Ramos, making Gimenez surplus to requirements. While the Rossoneri are willing to let the Mexico international depart, their insistence on a permanent transfer conflicts with Lazio’s strict budget constraints.
Room for compromise
Sources indicate that Milan’s stance could soften as the transfer window progresses, potentially opening the door to a loan deal with an option to buy. Should this flexibility emerge, Lazio would look to move decisively to secure the services of Gattuso’s primary target.