The developing Santiago Giménez transfer saga took a turn this weekend as Feyenoord directly refuted reports of a formal bid from Arsenal.

Previously, Mexican media outlets claimed the Gunners were in a three-way battle for the in-demand striker. Are Arsenal truly interested, or is this a storm of transfer window speculation in a tiny teacup?

Feyenoord's Mexican forward Santiago Gimenez #29 celebrates after scoring during the Dutch Eredivisie premier league football match between Feyenoord and Almere City FC at the Feyenoord Stadion de Kuip in Rotterdam, on August 27, 2023. (Photo by MAURICE VAN STEEN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)
Feyenoord’s Mexican forward Santiago Gimenez #29 celebrates after scoring during the Dutch Eredivisie premier league football match between Feyenoord and Almere City FC at the Feyenoord Stadion de Kuip in Rotterdam, on August 27, 2023. (Photo by MAURICE VAN STEEN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

Mexican outlets are full of ‘news’ about Feyenoord striker Santiago Giménez and a potential big-money transfer this summer.

Record in Mexico initially sounded confident about an impending decision, claiming that Giménez must choose between Arsenal, Juventus, and Atlético Madrid. However, new information suggests the situation may not be as advanced.

Feyenoord denies formal offers

Azteca Deportes, another Mexican outlet, contacted Feyenoord for clarification. A club source insists that no formal offers from Arsenal, Juventus, or Atlético have been received for the 23-year-old.

They further state that no formal approaches from any interested clubs have been made. This casts significant doubt on the earlier reports of imminent bids and decisions.

Where does this leave Arsenal?

Ajax' Bosnian defender #37 Josip Sutalo (L) fights for the ball with Feyenoord's Mexican forward #29 Santiago Gimenez (R) during the Dutch Eredivisie match between Ajax Amsterdam and Feyenoord at The Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam on September 24, 2023. (Photo by MAURICE VAN STEEN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)
Ajax’ Bosnian defender #37 Josip Sutalo (L) fights for the ball with Feyenoord’s Mexican forward #29 Santiago Gimenez (R) during the Dutch Eredivisie match between Ajax Amsterdam and Feyenoord at The Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam on September 24, 2023. (Photo by MAURICE VAN STEEN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

The contradiction in updates creates uncertainty around Arsenal’s involvement. There are a few scenarios to consider:

  • Genuine interest, early stages: Arsenal may be actively scouting Giménez without having submitted a formal offer yet. This is standard practice in high-profile transfers.
  • Media speculation: The Mexican press could be amplifying rumours to generate hype and drive the player’s value higher, a common tactic during transfer windows.
  • Change of heart: Giménez may have initially considered a move but could be rethinking his options based on club performance or personal priorities.

Giménez’s focus and future

Sources indicate Giménez remains focused on finishing the season strong with Feyenoord, even as his goal-scoring streak has cooled off. His standout performances this season, scoring 24 and assisting six in 39 games, have understandably attracted attention from numerous clubs.

Whether Giménez joins the ranks at Arsenal or another European giant remains a question mark. The conflicting reports underscore the chaotic and often speculative nature of the transfer market. Time will tell if Arsenal’s reported interest translates into a concrete bid and a major signing for the club.