Theo Hernandez Transfer Twist: From Milan to Riyadh? Full-back Opens Door to Al-Hilal Move Under Inzaghi

AC Milan’s star defender reconsiders stance on Saudi switch amid contract impasse

In a surprising twist that could reshape the backline of one of Italy’s most storied clubs, Theo Hernandez appears to be edging closer to a transfer that few believed likely just weeks ago. The AC Milan left-back, long admired across Europe for his blend of pace, power, and attacking flair, is now reportedly open to joining Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League giants who recently installed Simone Inzaghi as their new head coach.

This potential move represents a significant U-turn for the 27-year-old, who had previously resisted overtures from the Middle East in favour of remaining in Europe — ideally with a return to his native Spain. But with contract renewal talks with Milan at a standstill, and his dream move to Atletico Madrid collapsing over financial disagreements, Hernandez is now considering an unexpected exit route to Riyadh.

A change of heart: Why Theo is now open to Al-Hilal

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, talks between Hernandez’s camp and Al-Hilal are expected to intensify in the coming days. While the player had previously shown little interest in swapping Serie A for Saudi Arabia, the landscape has changed drastically with Al-Hilal’s high-profile appointment of former Inter boss Simone Inzaghi.

Inzaghi, a coach familiar with Serie A talents and well-versed in extracting the best from wing-backs, is believed to have personally identified Hernandez as a cornerstone for his new tactical project in the Gulf. That coaching connection, paired with Al-Hilal’s vast financial firepower, appears to have swayed Hernandez’s outlook.

Importantly, Hernandez has now reportedly given permission for formal negotiations to begin, meaning that the transfer is no longer hypothetical — it’s actively in motion.

Milan left in limbo as contract clock ticks

Inter Milan Coppa Italia Theo Hernandez

For AC Milan, the timing of this U-turn is both problematic and predictable. Hernandez’s contract is set to expire in 2026, and despite efforts to tie him down to a longer-term deal, talks have stalled. Without a new agreement in sight, Milan run the risk of either losing him for free or being forced to sell at a reduced fee next summer.

The Rossoneri had already been exploring contingency plans this summer, but were hopeful of resolving the situation before the new season. Now, they may be forced into the market for a new left-back, sooner than anticipated.

Hernandez’s importance to Milan since his arrival from Real Madrid in 2019 cannot be overstated. With over 260 appearances and consistent contributions in both attack and defence, the Frenchman has arguably been the best left-back in Serie A over the past five seasons. His overlapping runs, direct style, and goal threat have made him a fan favourite at San Siro.

But as is often the case in modern football, even the most beloved figures can find themselves at a crossroads when contracts and finances collide.

Al-Hilal’s intent clear: another European star in their ranks

theo hernandez feyenoord

Should the move go through, Hernandez would join a growing list of top-tier European stars to take their talents to Saudi Arabia. From Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema to Sergej Milinković-Savić and Neymar, the Saudi Pro League has transformed into a serious player in the global football market.

And Al-Hilal, in particular, have shown a level of ambition few can match. After finishing second in the 2024-25 domestic season, the Riyadh-based side are eager to bolster their squad ahead of next season’s Club World Cup and AFC Champions League campaigns. Hernandez would represent not just a marquee signing, but a statement of tactical intent, as Inzaghi looks to replicate the wing-based dominance he fostered at Inter.

A missed Spanish reunion and Milan’s plan B

Notably, Hernandez had hoped for a return to Spain, with Atletico Madrid reportedly showing interest earlier in the window. But when it came time to open talks, Atletico balked at Milan’s asking price, unwilling to commit to a full financial package that met the Rossoneri’s valuation. The collapse of that potential deal left Hernandez in limbo — until Al-Hilal came calling once again, now under new leadership and with renewed urgency.

As Milan prepare for a post-Theo future, the club’s new sporting structure — led by directors Geoffrey Moncada and Zlatan Ibrahimović — will need to move swiftly. A few names have already been floated as potential replacements, including Emerson Palmieri, Owen Wijndal, and even a loan return for Fodé Ballo-Touré. But none offer the same attacking upside or physical dominance as Hernandez.

What comes next?

According to sources close to the negotiation, Hernandez’s agents will meet with Al-Hilal officials this week to discuss personal terms. It is understood that salary expectations are not an issue — the Saudi club are prepared to offer a significant multi-year package, including performance bonuses and image rights incentives.

If talks progress smoothly, a deal could be agreed before Milan report for pre-season, sparing the club a potential dressing room distraction.

And for Hernandez, this would represent a fresh start under a familiar coach, with guaranteed playing time, continental competition, and, no doubt, a transformative contract — both professionally and personally.

Final thoughts: The end of an era in Milan?

If Theo Hernandez’s exit is confirmed in the coming weeks, it will mark the end of a transformative chapter in Milan’s recent history. From a promising but raw full-back at Real Madrid to one of the most feared wide men in Europe, Hernandez’s evolution in red and black has been remarkable.

While a move to Saudi Arabia might not sit well with every fan, football’s shifting economics mean that even Europe’s most storied clubs are no longer immune to the allure of oil-backed riches.

For Hernandez, the move is less about retirement and more about reuniting with a manager he trusts, in a league eager to prove its credibility. And for Milan, the challenge is clear: replace a key figure, reinvest wisely, and move forward — just as they’ve done so many times before.