Benfica have earmarked Santiago Gimenez as their main transfer target in case Goncalo Ramos leaves the club.
Lisbon giants preparing for life after Goncalo RamosProlific striker heavily linked with move to Premier LeagueGimenez regarded as the perfect replacement(C)Getty ImagesWhat happened?
Benfica have stepped up their interest in Feyenoord striker Santiago Gimenez as they prepare for life after Goncalo Ramos, reports.
Ramos has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, with clubs such as Manchester United and Newcastle United believed to be keeping a close eye on the attacker, while Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain have also been credited with an interest in signing him.
Benfica have not given up hopes of holding on to their star striker just yet, but have actively started looking at alternatives and they think Gimenez would be the ideal replacement for Ramos in case of a transfer.
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Gimenez has caught the attention of a number of high-profile clubs after an impressive debut season with Feyenoord.
The 22-year-old has also been linked with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid.
The Mexico star has a contract with Feyenoord until June 20226 and the Eredivisie giants have set a hefty asking price for their star striker.
They were previously believed to be asking for a transfer fee in the region of $30 million, but recent reports now suggest they are aiming for up to $50m.
GettyAnd what's more
Gimenez has enjoyed a stellar 2022-23 campaign during which he not just made a name for himself in Europe, but also became a key figure for the national team after missing out on a spot in Mexico's World Cup squad.
The striker netted 23 goals in 45 appearances in all competitions for Feyenoord to help them lift the Eredivisie title, while they also reached the semi-finals of the KNVB Beker and the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
He then capped his fine campaign with two goals in six Gold Cup appearances for Mexico, including the only goal of the game in the 1-0 final win over Panama.
Did you know?
The attacker was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, but has opted to represent Mexico at international level.
He has a relationship with Mexican actress Fer Serrano, who has become somewhat of a favourite among Feyenoord fans for her passion for football in general and the Eredivisie giants in particular.