Atletico Madrid are intensifying their pursuit of AC Milan’s left-back Theo Hernandez, amid significant interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. The French defender, who began his career in Atletico’s youth academy, is at the center of a transfer saga that could see him return to La Liga or venture into the lucrative Saudi Pro League.
Atletico Madrid’s Renewed Interest
Atletico Madrid have long admired Hernandez, with previous attempts to secure his services falling short due to AC Milan’s high valuation. Reports from June 2023 indicated that Milan set a price tag exceeding €80 million, a figure deemed too steep by the Spanish club . However, with Hernandez’s contract negotiations at Milan stalling and his current deal set to expire in 2026, Atletico see an opportunity to bring back their former youth product at a potentially reduced fee.
Al-Hilal’s Lucrative Offer
Meanwhile, Al-Hilal have reportedly tabled a €30 million bid for Hernandez, an offer that AC Milan have accepted. Despite the financial allure, Hernandez has yet to agree to personal terms, expressing a desire to continue competing at the highest level in Europe . His reluctance mirrors that of other European stars, such as Bruno Fernandes, who recently declined a substantial offer from the Saudi club to remain in top-tier European football .
Contract Stalemate at AC Milan
Hernandez’s future at Milan remains uncertain, with contract extension talks reaching an impasse. The defender is reportedly seeking a salary increase from €4 million to €8 million net per season, a demand that Milan are currently unwilling to meet . This deadlock has prompted the club to consider selling the player to avoid losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires.
Interest from Other European Giants
The situation has attracted attention from other European heavyweights. Real Madrid, Hernandez’s former club, and Manchester City are both monitoring developments closely. Reports suggest that Milan may be willing to lower their asking price to around €35 million, a figure that could entice these clubs to make a move .
Hernandez’s Career and Contributions
Since joining AC Milan in 2019, Hernandez has established himself as one of the premier left-backs in Europe. Known for his speed, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability, he has made significant contributions to the team, including surpassing Paolo Maldini’s goal-scoring record for a Milan defender with 30 Serie A goals . His performances have been instrumental in Milan’s recent successes, and his departure would leave a considerable void in the squad.
Conclusion
As the summer transfer window approaches, Theo Hernandez finds himself at a crossroads. Atletico Madrid’s renewed interest offers a return to familiar surroundings and the opportunity to compete in the Champions League, while Al-Hilal’s offer presents a financially rewarding, albeit less competitive, alternative. With contract negotiations at Milan stalled and interest from other European giants, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the next chapter of Hernandez’s
career.
