AC Milan has taken bold steps to revamp its squad in the January transfer window, making two pivotal signings aimed at boosting their competitive edge. The Serie A giants have secured the services of Portuguese forward João Félix on loan from Chelsea and Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord, marking a significant shift as they look to return to the top of Italian football.
Félix's move, finalized at the beginning of the month, was facilitated after his limited playing time at Chelsea, where he struggled to find regular minutes under manager Enzo Maresca. Having joined Chelsea last summer for €52 million, the 25-year-old found himself eclipsed by other attacking talents. Despite this, Felix showcased his abilities scoring four goals in just five appearances during the Europa Conference League, proving he possesses the skillset to make contributions when on the field.
Interest from clubs like Aston Villa was evident, but AC Milan emerged victorious, securing the loan with a potential buy option included. Watching the derby match involving Inter Milan from the stands, Félix wasted no time familiarizing himself with the club's environment and ambition. Currently contracted to Chelsea until 2030, he now views Milan as a platform to reignite his career and emerge as a key player once again.
Alongside Félix, AC Milan has also completed the signing of Santiago Gimenez. The Mexican forward joins the San Siro side on a long-term contract until 2030, with Feyenoord receiving €35 million and the added potential of future sell-on clauses. Gimenez's arrival is hailed at the club as he was not only the standout player for Feyenoord but also one of the top valued players within CONCACAF, boasting experience and high performance levels.
Gimenez’s stellar form includes 16 goals across 19 matches this season and impressively scoring five goals out of five appearances during the UEFA Champions League. The 23-year-old, signed for only €6 million from Cruz Azul two years ago, has proven his prowess, racking up 65 goals across 105 appearances. His addition to the Milan roster is strategically planned to alleviate the recent goal drought, particularly following Álvaro Morata's loan to Galatasaray.
Morata's departure, which included obligations worth between €8-10 million, is part of Milan’s financial restructuring, enabling the club to invest wisely. Throughout his short tenure at AC Milan, Morata nabbed six goals and provided two assists but struggled to firmly establish himself as the lead striker. Consequently, the club hopes Gimenez will rejuvenate the attack, aiming to bounce back from their current seventh-position standing and inadequate goal-scoring record, which currently sits at just 32 goals.
Gimenez not only improves Milan’s immediate goal-scoring capacity but also looks to forge effective partnerships with the likes of fellow American forward Christian Pulisic. The two are expected to blend their skills effectively on the field, showcasing their individual talents for club success. On international stages, they have traditionally been rivals, but now Milan fans are eager to witness this formidable duo work on the same team.
With both Félix and Gimenez now secured, AC Milan aims to transform their season, targeting upward movement within Serie A's standings. The transfers are indicative of the club's willingness to take calculated risks and embrace new talent as they seek to build competitive momentum and reclaim their place among Italy's major football force.
Milan's strategic maneuvers are not just about this season; they represent long-term investment for sustained success moving forward. Fans will certainly be watching closely as these new additions take to the pitch and provide the spark the club desperately needs.