Last time I checked playmakers didn't score many goals....I think between Xavi and Iniesta they barely scored 10 goals. The only "creative" midfielder that scores goals regularly is Fabregas, which is one of the reasons I believe he's such quality. I only saw a few videos of Gourcuff (including his wonder goal) and he seems great, but it's just a video so I can't make an accurate claim. As far as I know, AC Milan sat him (considering the rest of their midfield I dont understand why) and now he's back in France, meh.
As far as this kid goes, if he's creating goals and racking in assists then its definately not a flop. A creative midfielder isn't going to single-handedly carry a team either, he needs at least one deadly striker/winger to work with. Serie A has been fading for a while, even their mid table is low quality, I'd much rather of seen him go to a mid table Spanish club. We'll have to keep an eye on him.