After the rejection of Al Hilal — with whom Milan had reached an agreement for a fee around 30 million euros — Theo Hernandez seemed just a step away from Atletico Madrid in recent days. But at a certain point, the Spanish club broke off talks with the Rossoneri, and thus the deal, which had seemed very close, did not go through. Yesterday, Manuel Garcia Quilon, the French full-back's agent, re-established contact with the Colchoneros in an attempt to reach an agreement.
Theo out of AC Milan's project...
This is reported this morning by La Gazzetta dello Sport, which explains that Theo now finds himself in a rather uncomfortable position at Milan because, unlike Mike Maignan — who will remain the starter even though his contract expires in 2026 — he is not part of Milan’s technical project. At the Rossoneri club's headquarters, they are hoping to receive news soon from Madrid or from the Frenchman’s agent, who is currently considering only the option that leads to Atletico. Officially, the deal collapsed because the two clubs couldn’t reach a financial agreement, but it appears that behind the Spaniards' change of heart are the Rojiblanco fans, who do not want Theo back due to his transfer to Real Madrid in 2017.
Without a rekindling of Atletico Madrid’s interest, the risk is heading towards a power struggle until the end of the summer transfer window. Milan could decide not to use him in summer friendlies, to make it clear to the player that he is not truly part of the Rossoneri’s technical plans. Staying at all costs — while sitting on the bench or in the stands during a season that leads to the World Cup — would be of no benefit whatsoever to the French player. Milan, for its part, wants to avoid losing him for free in a year. Therefore, finding a solution during this summer window benefits everyone.
