Sunderland were heavily linked with Santiago Gimenez in the run-up to the January transfer window.

Sunderland-linked striker Santiago Gimenez is still expected to leave AC Milan this summer, with the Mexican closing in on a return to full fitness, according to reports.

The Black Cats were touted as admirers of the forward late last year, but any prospect of him parting company with his Italian employers was quashed after he suffered an ankle injury that was expected to sideline him for around three months.

That timeframe looks to be fairly accurate too, with continental outlet TuttoSport providing an update on Gimenez’s situation in Milan. It is stated that the 24-year-old is scheduled to have an important check-up on his rehabilitation next week, and that he could be back in action sooner rather than later.

If that is the case, then Milan are expected to put him on a fixed regime aimed at reintroducing him to the first team picture as soon as possible. But while Gimenez’s comeback would be considered a boost, the expectation remains that he will leave the club at the end of the season.

Since signing from Feyenoord, the attacker has scored just seven goals in 30 appearances, including one strike in 11 outings this term, and his fairly modest output, coupled with the recent arrival of ex-West Ham talent Niklas Fullkrug, could ultimately lead to his departure.

To that end, it is claimed that Premier League clubs are still keen on Gimenez, and while Sunderland are not mentioned directly, they were prominently placed in the speculation surrounding the player last year, as were West Ham. Any team looking to tempt Milan into a sale will likely have to pay upwards of £21.8 million.

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What has Santiago Gimenez said about his AC Milan future amid Sunderland transfer interest?

But while Gimenez is being lined up for an exit, a report from CalcioMercato back in November suggested that the player himself still believes that he can make a name for himself at Milan.

What’s more, the Mexican has seemingly confirmed his stance, and his desire to remain in Italy for the time being. Speaking over the summer, as quoted by Milan News, he said: "I feel at home in Milan, I'm living a dream, I thank God for giving me the chance to be at such a great team as Milan. I think there were a lot of rumours that I might leave, but I'm very happy there. I spoke with the management, the coaching staff, and the idea is for me to stay. I'll try to show the best version of myself, because I don't want to waste an opportunity like this."

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