AC Milan's summer rebuild under new head coach Ruben Amorim could see a major reshuffle up front, with Santiago Gimenez potentially heading to Orlando City and Goncalo Ramos arriving from Paris Saint-Germain. Italian daily Corriere dello Sport, as reported by Football Italia, claims the Rossoneri are seriously pursuing the Portuguese forward, and that the MLS club's interest in the Mexican striker may be the key to unlocking the deal.
Amorim's masterplan takes shape
Ruben Amorim's appointment at vision, he wants players he knows and trusts. Morten Hjulmand and Francisco Trincao were among the first names linked, and now Portugal suggest Hjulmand has already said goodbye to his Sporting teammates, indicating that a deal may be close (as per Football Italia). This proactive approach underscores Amorim's influence even before a sporting director has been named.
The Gimenez sacrifice
Santiago Gimenez, signed from Feyenoord to much fanfare, has not fully lived up to expectations in Arsenal and scored in the penalty shootout, showcasing his composure on the biggest stage. Yet, at PSG, he is part of a packed forward line that also features established stars. A move to Milan would offer him a starring role and the responsibility to lead the line weekly.
Milan, for their part, have lacked a reliable, young goalscorer since Zlatan Ibrahimovic's retirement. With Olivier Giroud now 39, the need for a long-term number nine is acute. Ramos's technical ability, intelligent movement, and Champions League pedigree make him an ideal fit for Amorim's system.
The financial puzzle
Paris Saint-Germain are unlikely to let Ramos go cheaply. The French giants invested heavily to bring him from Benfica in 2024, and his value has only increased. Reports suggest a fee in the €40-50 million range would be needed. Milan, careful with their finances, will only be able to make such an outlay if they first offload players. The potential sale of Gimenez to Orlando City is thus the critical enabler.
Additionally, moving Gimenez off the wage bill would free up considerable salary space. All signs point to a domino effect: if Orlando City formalize a bid, Milan will immediately step up their pursuit of Ramos.
Key Takeaways
- Milan are targeting PSG and Portugal striker Goncalo Ramos to bolster their attack under new coach Ruben Amorim.
- Santiago Gimenez could be sold to Orlando City in MLS, with the transfer fee funding the move for Ramos.
- Amorim's arrival has sparked links with several former Sporting CP players, including Morten Hjulmand.
- The deal hinges on Orlando City's interest materializing and PSG's willingness to negotiate a reasonable fee.
- Milan are navigating the market without a sporting director, but Amorim is heavily involved in plotting the squad rebuild.
Quick Facts
Target: Goncalo Ramos (Paris Saint-Germain)
Potential Outgoing: Santiago Gimenez (to Orlando City)
New Coach: Ruben Amorim
Competitions: Serie A, Ligue 1, MLS, UEFA Champions League
Source: Corriere dello Sport (via Football Italia)