The Mexican striker is reportedly close to joining Italian giants AC Milan after De Telegraaf's Mike Verweij reported that Feyenoord would accept a bid between 35 and 40 million euros from Milan. That fee would be slightly higher than Milan's current bid.
"I hope he stays, but I don't know yet. I would like to keep 'Santi'," said Priske during a press conference. "He is an incredible player for us and has shown in recent seasons that he is the best striker in the Netherlands.
"I hope he stays, but it is not only my decision but of the board and (technical director) Dennis (te Kloese)".
Feyenoord play the 'Klassieker' derby against Ajax this Sunday and lost 6-1 to Lille on the last day of the Champions League's League Phase. Gimenez suffered an injury in that game but was expected to be back on the pitch Saturday.
If Gimenez does leave for Milan, the 23-year-old Mexican international could return to De Kuip much sooner than expected after Feyenoord drew Milan in Friday's Champions League knock-out phase draw.
"I am not concerned with that," noted Priske about the possibility of meeting Gimenez as an opponent. "Right now he is at Feyenoord and he is in my head for Sunday.
"I am now focused on that game, not the match in 10 or 11 days‘ time," Priske said.