Theo Hernandez, a standout in AC Milan’s lineup and one of the top players globally in his position, has drawn attention from prestigious clubs.
According to reports from SempreMilan.it, Theo Hernandez is emerging as a key target for Bayern Munich, who appear ready to challenge Milan’s resolve if they face the departure of Alphonso Davies to Real Madrid.
In contrast, AC Milan is gearing up for an ambitious summer transfer window, planning to secure a center-forward, defensive reinforcements (potentially two), and a midfield addition. The total expenditure is expected to reach €100 million or more.
Gerry Cardinale, responsible for financing part of the budget, faces limitations due to reduced UEFA prize money compared to the previous season’s Champions League semi-final run. Consequently, Milan may need to adopt a self-financing approach for the upcoming transfer window.
In this scenario, potential incoming offers for players like Mike Maignan, Rafael Leao, and Theo Hernandez become more intriguing, although there is a desire to build the team around this trio.
The valuation.
The Milan management remains steadfast in their stance, unwilling to compromise on Theo Hernandez’s valuation, setting it at no less than €100 million. This valuation is deemed reasonable, especially given the current inflated transfer market and the potential financial resources Bayern Munich could divert from the sale of Alphonso Davies.
The potential sale of Hernandez aligns with Milan’s sustainability strategy under RedBird Capital, evident from the Sandro Tonali transfer to Newcastle United last summer. This case underscores the club’s pragmatic approach, prioritizing fair or above-market offers over sentimentality.
Additionally, the potential sale of Hernandez could result in a substantial capital gain for Milan, providing a significant financial boost for incoming transfer operations. This financial flexibility enhances Milan’s maneuverability in the transfer market and allows them to pursue strategic acquisitions.
The contractual status.
Following an inconsistent start to the current season, Theo Hernandez has significantly showcased his importance in recent months. His stellar performances, playing adeptly at both centre-back and left-back positions, have been instrumental in Milan’s success.
The defender renewed his contract with the club at the beginning of 2022, and with the natural progression of football contracts, discussions about another extension are looming on the horizon.
The contractual situation adds a layer of complexity to the overall picture, but according to Calciomercato.com and other sources, the 26-year-old Frenchman expresses contentment and willingness to engage in talks about extending his stay at Milan.
Hernandez’s happiness at the club, coupled with his exceptional on-field contributions, positions him as a key player in Milan’s future plans.
It’s noteworthy that since the start of 2020, Theo Hernandez ranks second only to Trent Alexander-Arnold in terms of involvement in goals among defenders in the top five European leagues. His impressive tally of 55 contributions (24 goals and 31 assists) underscores his significance on the pitch.
[Source: Opta via MilanData]
Nevertheless, Theo Hernandez has expressed the desire to defer any discussions regarding a contract renewal until the summer. His rationale behind this decision is to maintain focus on the ongoing season and contribute wholeheartedly to Milan’s current campaign without any distractions. While this commitment to the present is admirable, it does raise the possibility that Hernandez might also be considering various options for his future.
As the season approaches its conclusion, Geoffrey Moncada and other Milan executives are planning to schedule a meeting with Hernandez’s representative, Manuel Garcia Quillon, to delve into potential new terms. Presently, Hernandez’s contract is set to expire in 2026, and he currently earns €4 million net per year.
When negotiations commence, it is conceivable that Hernandez will aim to align his salary more closely with or even match that of his teammate Rafael Leao, who earns €5 million net per season, along with bonuses that can elevate his earnings to €7 million.
The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, and it remains to be seen whether Milan will be amenable to meeting Hernandez’s expectations, but the initial talks are expected to commence on a positive note.
Identifying potential successors.
Should Theo Hernandez depart, Milan’s primary attention would shift to Filippo Terracciano, potentially acquiring Alex Jimenez from Real Madrid for €5m. However, recognizing Hernandez’s significance, Milan might need to explore further options.
One prospect gaining attention is Juan Miranda, whose contract with Real Betis concludes in June, making him an appealing choice for Milan’s sporting director Geoffrey Moncada.
A more plausible scenario involves utilizing a significant portion of the transfer funds to secure a more seasoned replacement. Pervis Estupiñan emerges as a strong candidate, having excelled under Roberto De Zerbi’s guidance at Brighton.
De Zerbi, admired by the Rossoneri management, could also factor into Milan’s future plans, potentially succeeding Stefano Pioli as head coach. Given the challenge of finding a player of Hernandez’s caliber, the 26-year-old Ecuador international appears to be an ideal replacement, contributing six goals or assists in 21 games for Brighton this season.