The football world is abuzz as Theo Hernandez, the dynamic French left-back, prepares to bid farewell to AC Milan after six memorable seasons. Confirmed by new Rossoneri coach Massimiliano Allegri on July 7, 2025, Hernandez is set to join Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, marking a significant move in his career and a notable transfer in the summer window.
The 27-year-old defender, who joined Milan from Real Madrid in 2019 for a €22 million fee, quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team. Over six seasons, Hernandez amassed an impressive 262 appearances across all competitions, contributing 34 goals and 45 assists. His impact on the pitch was undeniable, helping Milan secure their 19th Serie A title in the 2021-22 season and the Italian Super Cup in 2024-25. Beyond his offensive contributions, he played a crucial role in Milan’s defensive solidity, contributing to 70 clean sheets during his tenure.
Despite his importance, Hernandez’s future at Milan became uncertain after the club failed to secure European football for the upcoming season. Negotiations for a contract extension beyond 2026 broke down, prompting the club and player to consider new directions. The Frenchman, who also served as vice-captain, informed Milan’s management at the end of June that he was open to a move, reversing his initial rejection of Al-Hilal’s advances.
Al-Hilal, managed by former Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi, had been pursuing Hernandez as a prime target for their left wing-back position. Recognized as one of Serie A’s standout performers, Hernandez had been named in the Team of the Season on four occasions, underscoring his quality and consistency. The Saudi club’s persistence paid off, and after the conclusion of the FIFA Club World Cup — where Al-Hilal were eliminated by Fluminense — negotiations accelerated toward finalization.
Multiple sources confirmed that the deal between AC Milan and Al-Hilal is now sealed, pending the usual medical and official signing formalities. Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano announced the agreement on social media, stating, “Theo Hernández to Al Hilal, here we go! Agreement now being sealed after verbal pact made two weeks ago. AC Milan will receive €25m transfer fee as Theo will sign his contract in the upcoming days. New left back for Simone Inzaghi.”
This €25 million fee represents a slight reduction from Milan’s initial demand of €30 million, but it includes potential add-ons. The transfer marks a major coup for Al-Hilal, who have been aggressively bolstering their squad with high-profile signings amid the Saudi Pro League’s growing international stature. Hernandez is expected to earn a lucrative €20 million per season, reflecting the league’s financial muscle and ambition.
Massimiliano Allegri, returning to Milan for his second spell as head coach, addressed Hernandez’s departure during his unveiling press conference. “Theo Hernandez is a very great player. He has made his choice and I wish him the best for the future,” Allegri said, expressing respect for the player’s decision while signaling that Milan will look to the future without him. When asked about a replacement, Allegri emphasized confidence in the club’s current options: “I repeat, I don't talk about the market. We have Jimenez and Bartesaghi as full-backs and for now, we will work with them.”
Indeed, Milan’s squad is preparing for a busy pre-season, with friendlies lined up against top English Premier League sides Arsenal, Liverpool, Leeds United, and Chelsea, as well as Australia’s Perth Glory. The Rossoneri will then face Bari in the Coppa Italia on August 17, marking the first competitive match under Allegri’s guidance since his return.
Hernandez’s departure follows other significant exits from Milan this summer. Midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has already moved to Manchester City for a £51 million fee, and speculation continues around Rafael Leao’s future. The club faces a transitional period, having finished a disappointing eighth in the 2024-25 Serie A campaign, far below the expectations set by their recent Scudetto triumph.
For Hernandez, the move to Al-Hilal represents a new chapter in his career, offering fresh challenges in a burgeoning league. His decision to embrace this opportunity highlights the growing appeal of the Saudi Pro League for top European talents, who are drawn by competitive contracts and the chance to pioneer football’s expansion beyond traditional strongholds.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Milan to see how they rebuild and adapt without one of their most influential players. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of a proven Serie A star, hopeful that Hernandez’s experience and skill will elevate their squad’s ambitions both domestically and in continental competitions.
The football world watches closely as Theo Hernandez prepares to embark on this exciting new journey, closing a significant chapter at AC Milan and opening another in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving football landscape.
