Theo Hernández Set for Milan Exit Despite Renewal Wish – Potential Destinations and Replacements

AC Milan is set to face a potential loss of one of its most dynamic and important players, Theo Hernández, despite the French left-back expressing a desire to remain at the club. The 25-year-old has been a pivotal figure in Milan’s defense since his arrival in 2019, contributing not only as a solid defender but also as a crucial attacking force down the left wing. However, despite his wish for a contract renewal, the situation surrounding Hernández’s future at Milan has taken a turn, with rumors of an impending exit starting to swirl.

This potential departure has left many in the football world wondering: where could Hernández go next, and who could replace him at Milan? With several top clubs reportedly keeping tabs on the Frenchman, Milan may have to prepare for life without one of their standout performers, making his departure a key storyline in the club’s future plans.

Theo Hernández’s Impact at Milan

Since arriving from Real Madrid for a reported €20 million in 2019, Theo Hernández has quickly established himself as one of the best left-backs in Europe. His pace, dribbling, and attacking intelligence have made him a constant threat going forward, while his defensive abilities have solidified Milan’s backline. Hernández has scored key goals and provided numerous assists, playing a crucial role in Milan’s Serie A title triumph in 2022.

His ability to bomb forward and contribute to Milan’s offensive play has earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting full-backs in Europe. Alongside his attacking contributions, his solid defensive work and high work rate have made him a fan favorite. His performances in the Champions League, where Milan reached the semi-finals in 2023, further solidified his place as one of the most well-rounded left-backs on the continent.

However, despite these successes, Hernández’s contract situation has become increasingly uncertain. His current deal with Milan runs until 2026, but despite his willingness to extend his stay at the club, reports suggest that Milan is reluctant to meet his salary demands, prompting speculation about his future.

Why Is Hernández Leaving?

The reason behind Theo Hernández’s potential exit appears to be linked to contractual and financial matters. While Hernández has expressed his desire to continue playing at Milan, the club is reportedly not willing to meet his wage demands, leading to tension in the negotiations. Milan’s financial situation, coupled with their ambitions to balance the books while remaining competitive, may have led to a stalemate between the club and the player’s representatives.

Moreover, Milan’s reluctance to offer a contract renewal at the terms that Hernández seeks could open the door for a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs. Despite his desire to stay in Milan, the lack of agreement on a new deal may force his hand, and a summer transfer could be in the cards.

With top clubs from across Europe reportedly interested in his services, Hernández’s exit seems increasingly likely, leaving Milan in a difficult position to find a suitable replacement.

Potential Destinations for Theo Hernández

Theo Hernández’s skill set has made him one of the most sought-after full-backs in European football. His ability to defend, attack, and contribute to both ends of the pitch has caught the attention of several top clubs. If Hernández decides to leave Milan, where could he go?

1. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
   One of the most likely destinations for Hernández could be Paris Saint-Germain. The French giants have long been on the lookout for quality full-backs, and with their focus on bolstering their defense, a move for Hernández seems plausible. PSG already has a wealth of attacking talent, and adding a player of Hernández’s quality could give them another dynamic option on the left side of the pitch. Furthermore, PSG’s strong financial position would allow them to meet Hernández’s wage demands.

2. Real Madrid
   Another potential suitor for Hernández is his former club, Real Madrid. The Spanish giants have a history of re-signing players who have excelled after leaving the club, and Hernández’s current form could make him an appealing option to strengthen their defense. Madrid has been linked with various left-back options in recent years, and with Marcelo’s departure and Ferland Mendy’s inconsistent form, Hernández could offer an upgrade in the position. A return to Madrid, his boyhood club, could appeal to Hernández both emotionally and professionally.

3. Chelsea
   Chelsea’s full-back options have been a topic of concern in recent seasons, and the Blues could be interested in bringing Hernández to Stamford Bridge. With a young and talented squad under manager Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea is looking to build a team capable of challenging for top honors in both domestic and European competitions. Hernández’s pace and attacking prowess would be an asset to Chelsea, who have struggled to find consistency on the left side in recent years.

4. Manchester City
   Manchester City has long been known for its attacking full-backs, and with João Cancelo’s departure, they could be in the market for a new left-back. Hernández’s offensive qualities and ability to bomb forward would fit perfectly into Pep Guardiola’s tactical system. City’s financial power could also make a deal for Hernández a possibility, as they have shown a willingness to invest in top-tier talent.

5. Bayern Munich
   Bayern Munich is another club that could be an ideal destination for Hernández. The Bavarian giants have a history of recruiting top-class players from around Europe, and Hernández’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively would fit well into Bayern’s attacking-oriented philosophy. With Bayern’s continued focus on strengthening their squad to compete with the likes of Borussia Dortmund and other top European clubs, Hernández could prove to be an excellent addition to their backline.

Replacements for Theo Hernández at Milan

If Theo Hernández does depart Milan, the club will need to find a suitable replacement to maintain their competitive edge. While Milan’s scouting department is known for uncovering hidden gems, there are a few key players who could fill the void left by the Frenchman.

1. Benjamin Pavard (Bayern Munich)
   One potential replacement for Hernández could be Benjamin Pavard, currently at Bayern Munich. Pavard has excelled as a versatile defender and has shown his capability as a right-back and a left-back. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively make him a solid candidate to replace Hernández. Milan could look to make a move for the Frenchman if Hernández departs, bringing in a reliable and experienced full-back.

2. Jérémy Doku (Manchester City)
   While Doku is primarily an attacker, his ability to play as a wing-back could make him an interesting option for Milan to bolster their defense. Known for his pace and dribbling, Doku could offer Milan a more attacking option down the left flank, similar to Hernández’s style.

3. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea)
   Marc Cucurella, currently at Chelsea, is another option Milan could consider. The Spaniard has demonstrated his ability to play both as a full-back and a wing-back, offering versatility and defensive stability. Cucurella’s time in the Premier League has shown that he has the quality to compete at a high level, and Milan could look to capitalize on his talents if Hernández leaves.

Conclusion

The potential departure of Theo Hernández from AC Milan represents a significant shift for the club, given his crucial role in their recent successes. While the Frenchman has expressed a desire to stay, the club’s unwillingness to meet his wage demands could lead to a move away from Milan. If that happens, top clubs like PSG, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich will likely be in the hunt for his signature.

For Milan, finding a suitable replacement for Hernández will be crucial, as his contributions on both ends of the pitch have been invaluable. As the transfer window approaches, the situation surrounding Hernández’s future at Milan promises to be one of the most closely watched stories in European football.