Theo Hernandez Set for Al Hilal Move, Marking the End of a Milan Era

In a move that had long been anticipated but still came as a surprise due to its timing, French full-back Theo Hernandez has agreed to join Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal, bringing an end to his six-year spell at AC Milan. The report comes via Saudi outlet Asharq Al-Awsat, which details how the deal unfolded and what it means for all parties involved.

According to the report, Al Hilal, now under new head coach Simone Inzaghi, succeeded in persuading Theo with their latest offer — a net salary of €20 million per year. This marks a significant shift, as the 26-year-old had previously rejected approaches from Saudi clubs due to concerns over sporting competitiveness. But the lucrative terms on the table this time have seemingly altered his stance.

At this stage, only final details remain to be ironed out between Al Hilal and Milan. The Italian club are holding out for a €30 million transfer fee, which La Gazzetta dello Sport reports had already been tentatively agreed before the Club World Cup. Once formalised, it will close the chapter on one of Milan’s most influential players in recent years.

Hernandez arrived at Milan in the summer of 2019 from Real Madrid with a reputation as a talented yet temperamental figure. But he swiftly transformed into one of the most dynamic full-backs in world football. His performances down the left flank were central to Milan’s Scudetto triumph in 2021–22, and he outscored club legend Paolo Maldini in Serie A while wearing a Rossoneri shirt.

In total, Hernandez made 262 appearances for Milan, scoring 31 goals — the most ever by a defender in the club’s history. He also became a regular starter for France, playing a key role in their run to the 2022 World Cup final, where he scored in the semi-final. However, his 2023–24 season saw a marked decline, with spells on the bench and disciplinary issues, including dissent during cooling breaks and unauthorised penalty attempts, which strained his relationship with the coaching staff.

Interest in Hernandez persisted throughout the past year. In January, Serie B side Como made an eye-catching offer of €8 million per year, but Milan declined to sell. Atlético Madrid also explored the possibility of bringing him back, but talks failed to progress. Al Hilal, undeterred, returned with an improved offer — increasing their proposal from €18 million to €20 million annually — which the player has now accepted. With interest from Europe cooling and financial packages less enticing, Hernandez appears ready to make the switch.

Milan, for their part, are not inclined to block the deal. The player has shown no real desire to extend his current contract, which runs until June 2026. In fact, he reportedly rejected a renewal offer worth less than his current €4.5 million salary. Facing the prospect of losing him on a free transfer in just over a year, the Rossoneri would rather cash in now — provided they receive the full €30 million fee.

Hernandez’s departure will leave a significant void on Milan’s left flank. Italian reports suggest the club are pursuing two potential replacements. The first is Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko (28), a seasoned international with top-level experience. He is under contract until 2026 and carries a market value of €15–20 million, making him a relatively affordable option. The second target is Destiny Udogie (22) of Tottenham Hotspur and the Italian national team, widely considered one of the best young full-backs in Europe. However, Spurs — fresh off a Europa League title — are unlikely to entertain offers below €40 million.

For Milan supporters, Hernandez’s exit marks the end of an era. From a wayward Madrid youngster to one of Serie A’s most feared attacking defenders, he leaves behind a legacy of flair, goals, and leadership. His final season may not have lived up to expectations, but his impact on the club is undeniable.