Real Madrid Tipped to Pursue AC Milan Star Theo Hernandez: A Bernabeu Reunion in the Making?

From Bernabeu Beginnings to San Siro Stardom

Back in 2019, few would have predicted that Theo Hernandez would evolve into one of Europe’s most electrifying left-backs. Let go by Real Madrid after a short and unremarkable stint in white, Hernandez packed his bags and took a bold leap to AC Milan. Fast forward to 2025, and the Frenchman is now being touted for a return to the Spanish capital as Madrid gear up for a summer overhaul at full-back.

It’s a story with all the right ingredients: redemption, growth, and a potential homecoming. With Real Madrid eyeing upgrades on both flanks of their defence, Theo’s name has surged to the top of their left-back wishlist.

Madrid’s Full-Back Puzzle: Time for an Overhaul

Real Madrid’s backline has long been a subject of both admiration and concern. While players like Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy have had their moments, inconsistency and injuries have often hampered defensive solidity. With a managerial shift on the horizon and Carlo Ancelotti potentially bidding farewell, the time seems ripe for a defensive shake-up.

On the right, Madrid are reportedly looking to make a splash by bringing in none other than Trent Alexander-Arnold. And on the left? That’s where Theo Hernandez comes in.

The Hernandez Evolution: From Frustrated Talent to World-Class Operator

Let’s not forget—Theo Hernandez wasn’t always this highly rated. After joining Madrid from Atletico in 2017, his opportunities were limited. A mere 13 La Liga appearances over two seasons left many questioning his future at the top level. But his decision to head to Milan turned out to be transformative.

At San Siro, under the guidance of Stefano Pioli, Hernandez found his feet. His lightning pace, fierce attacking intent, and improved defensive discipline turned him into a mainstay on the Rossoneri’s team sheet. He was instrumental in Milan’s 2021/22 Scudetto-winning campaign, developing an almost telepathic connection with Rafael Leao on the left wing.

Hernandez became more than just a full-back. He became a weapon.

Trouble in Milan: The End of an Era?

However, Milan have struggled to replicate their Scudetto success. The departure of Pioli and the arrival of Paulo Fonseca marked a turning point—and not a particularly smooth one. Hernandez and Fonseca reportedly never saw eye to eye, and the Frenchman’s form dipped amid tactical uncertainty.

Though Milan managed to clinch the Supercoppa Italiana in dramatic fashion and remain in contention for the Coppa Italia, their league form has faltered. Currently sitting ninth in Serie A, whispers around the club suggest a major summer clear-out could be on the cards.

And that brings us back to Real Madrid.

Contract Clock Ticking: Madrid Eyeing Opportunity

Hernandez is currently under contract at Milan until 2026. But according to Spanish outlet AS, extension talks have hit a wall. That opens the door for Madrid to swoop in with an offer.

Florentino Perez has never been one to ignore the allure of bringing a former asset back into the fold—especially when said player has become one of the best in the world in his position. With Alphonso Davies having committed his future to Bayern Munich, Real’s top left-back targets have narrowed.

Hernandez’s name now sits among other interesting prospects like Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez, Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras, and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. But none of them carry the same level of experience or emotional connection to the club as Theo.

The Ferland Mendy Conundrum

Ferland Mendy, when fit, is a solid and often underrated performer. But the key word there is “when.” Injuries have plagued his Madrid career, and patience at the Bernabeu is never infinite. There’s a growing sense among fans and club insiders alike that Madrid can, and perhaps should, aim for an upgrade.

Fran Garcia has been an able deputy but hasn’t quite convinced at the elite level. If Madrid are serious about building a squad that can dominate Europe for years to come, they need a left-back who can offer consistency, attacking thrust, and a bit of flair. Sound like anyone we know?

A Potential Fit for the New Era

With a new manager expected to take over from Ancelotti, potentially someone more aligned with modern, fluid attacking football, Hernandez could slot in perfectly. His ability to drive forward, combine with wingers, and recover defensively makes him ideal for the type of vertical football Madrid have leaned into in recent years.

It would also be a low-risk, high-reward move. Theo knows the club, speaks the language, and understands the pressure. He wouldn’t need months to settle in or adjust to life in Spain—he’s been there before.

Final Thoughts: Is the Time Right for a Return?

Football has a funny way of coming full circle. For Theo Hernandez, a return to the Bernabeu could feel like unfinished business. He left Madrid as a promising but raw youngster. Now, he returns—if he does—as a battle-tested, world-class defender with silverware and experience under his belt.

Real Madrid need to get their full-back situation right if they want to remain at the pinnacle of European football. Bringing back Theo Hernandez might just be the smartest move they could make this summer.

The ball, as always, is in Madrid’s court. But one thing’s for sure: this story is far from over.