AC Milan defender Theo Hernandez is reportedly in talks with Atletico Madrid as his move to Al Hilal is expected to collapse.
The 27-year-old has just 12 months remaining on his current contract with the Rossoneri, and that in turn has led to significant speculation this month over his future at San Siro.
READ MORE: Double Milan swoop touted as potential replacements eyed for key duo
With no recent reports suggesting that renewal talks are ongoing and heading in a positive direction or that both parties are keen to agree on new terms, it does appear as though the French international is heading for the exit door this summer, and another interested party has seemingly emerged.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Hernandez is in talks with Atleti over personal terms having rejected Al Hilal’s proposal this past weekend, and while it seems he’s keen on a move back to Spain, there is no suggestion as of yet that the La Liga giants are close to agreeing a deal with Milan.
He adds that the Rossoneri had a deal in place with Al Hilal worth €35m for the French defender, and so it remains to be seen if Atleti come anywhere near that to convince us to sell to them.
It’s a disappointing and difficult situation for all concerned to be facing now, as ultimately we don’t want to lose Hernandez for nothing next year, and so a sale at this point makes most sense if he’s not willing to sign a new contract and wishes to leave.
However, we’ve still got to get the best possible deal to ensure we have the funds to rebuild and fill that void, and ideally we don’t want players at the club who don’t necessarily want to be there as Massimiliano Allegri looks to rebuild the squad to suit his style of play and identity.
It remains to be seen what kind of offer we receive from Atleti, but if it’s significantly lower than what Al Hilal were offering, the sense is that Milan won’t settle for less than what they value Hernandez at, and so it’s hoped that a compromise can be reached to suit all parties, and sooner rather than later so we can go about our business of signing a replacement.
