Álex Jiménez closed a magical week in which he made his double debut for Milan in two competitions: on Tuesday in the Italian Cup (against Cagliari) and this Sunday against Empoli in Serie A.
These two matches have sparked excitement among the Milan leadership and the fans. The personality shown by the young Real Madrid academy graduate in his first two games, where he also played out of position (he's right-footed but has been playing on the left), is unusual for a footballer who's only 18 years old and adapting to a new team.
Jimenez has arrived on loan from Real Madrid to Milan last summer. According to what is told by Relevo, the initial move must come from Milan regarding the full-back's future: it involves a buy-option set at 5 million euros. However, the Rossoneri won't rush things as there are several months left before the end of the season.
Real Madrid's buy-back option for Alex Jimenez:
If Milan do sign him permanently, the ball goes back to Real Madrid, who, in the agreement made last summer, secured the final say. However, Madrid would regain control in the medium term because Álex Jiménez's destiny in 2024-2025 solely depends on Milan.
If Milan do sign him, Real Madrid would have two chances to buy him back: first in the summer of 2025 and then in 2026. There's a stipulated price for each of these windows, which is higher than the five million euros Milan would pay, and it's progressive. That means the 2026 option is higher than the one for 2025. Currently, both clubs are tight-lipped about these details as they're far ahead in the future, contingent upon Milan exercising their buy option this season.
Why Alex Jimenez decided to join Milan and leave Real Madrid:
Álex Jiménez was a significant bet for the Real Madrid academy's executives when they renewed his contract in May 2022: a deal until 2025 with clauses that could automatically extend it to 2027.
He was considered one of La Fábrica's future projects, but just a year later, they had to find him an exit after a complicated 2022-23 season, during which he didn't click either with Raúl (Castilla) or with Arbeloa (Juvenil A).
The player's entourage saw an opportunity abroad as the best way to reset his mind and start anew since there were never doubts about his quality. Although there's still a long season ahead, the decision has proven to be a great success because Alex Jiménez has regained his best form, increased his value, and demonstrated his ability to shine in the professional world despite his young age.
Source: Relevo.
