In a major development during the early stages of the summer transfer window, French international and AC Milan star Theo Hernandez has definitively turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi giants Al Hilal and is now in active discussions with La Liga side Atletico Madrid. The move, if completed, would mark a sensational return to Spanish football for the dynamic left-back and a reunion with the league where he first rose to prominence.
Al Hilal’s Ambitious Pursuit Ends in Rejection
Saudi Pro League clubs have continued their aggressive recruitment strategy into 2025, targeting top European talents with eye-watering financial packages. Al Hilal, one of the most dominant clubs in Asia and a recent major player in global transfer windows, reportedly made a massive contract offer to Theo Hernandez in recent weeks. The deal was said to be in excess of €25 million per season — a figure that would have made Hernandez one of the highest-paid defenders in world football.
However, despite the financial allure and the possibility of joining a growing cast of elite players in the Saudi league, Hernandez has firmly rejected Al Hilal’s approach. Sources close to the player confirm that while the offer was seriously considered, the 26-year-old is determined to continue competing at the highest level of European football and is prioritizing sporting ambition over financial gain.
Talks with Atletico Madrid Gain Momentum
Instead of heading to Saudi Arabia, Theo Hernandez appears set to return to familiar territory. He is now in advanced talks with Atletico Madrid, the club where his professional journey began. Having come through Atletico’s academy system before moving across the Spanish capital to join Real Madrid in 2017, a return to the Rojiblancos would be both a homecoming and a fresh challenge.
Reports indicate that Atletico manager Diego Simeone is a strong admirer of Hernandez’s physicality, pace, and attacking instincts down the left flank — qualities that would significantly bolster Atletico’s defense, especially with Reinildo Mandava struggling with injuries and aging. The club sees Hernandez as a perfect long-term replacement in a position that has lacked consistency over recent seasons.
Negotiations between AC Milan and Atletico are understood to be ongoing, with Milan valuing Hernandez at around €60–70 million. Given his contract with Milan runs until 2026, the Italian side is not under pressure to sell, but Hernandez’s desire to return to Spain could influence the deal’s trajectory. Atletico may include players or performance-based add-ons to bridge the valuation gap.
Why Theo Said No to Al Hilal
Theo Hernandez’s decision to reject Al Hilal isn’t merely a matter of loyalty to European football — it speaks volumes about his career aspirations. At 26, he’s entering his peak years and is seen as a key player for France going into Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup. Playing in a less competitive league could have jeopardized his standing with the national team.
Moreover, Hernandez has repeatedly spoken of his desire to play at the highest level and challenge for major European trophies. After four successful seasons at Milan — including a Serie A title in 2022 — he is believed to be seeking a new challenge that matches his ambitions. A move to Atletico, who consistently compete in the Champions League and under a manager with a strong tactical identity, seems to fit that bill perfectly.
Milan Preparing for Life After Theo
AC Milan, while disappointed by Hernandez’s desire to leave, have already begun exploring replacements. The club’s scouting department has been active in South America and France, eyeing young, attack-minded left-backs who can grow into the role. Names like Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth), Bradley Locko (Brest), and even a potential return for former loanee Diogo Dalot (now at Manchester United) have been floated as potential targets.
Should the deal with Atletico materialize, Milan will likely reinvest the funds into multiple areas of the squad as they aim to retool under new management and compete more consistently both domestically and in Europe.
A Defining Summer Ahead
Theo Hernandez’s transfer saga is shaping up to be one of the most watched of the summer. His rejection of Al Hilal is a statement in itself — one that reinforces the idea that, for some players, top-level competition still outweighs financial incentives. As talks with Atletico Madrid continue to progress, the football world will be watching closely to see if the Frenchman can seal a dramatic return to La Liga.
If completed, the move would not only strengthen Atletico’s squad but also send a message to the rest of Europe that Simeone’s side remains an attractive destination for top-tier talent — and that money still doesn’t always buy ambition.
