Theo Hernandez makes U-turn on Saudi Arabia transfer as AC Milan full-back seeks refuge at Simone Inzaghi's new team

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Hernandez has shown a concrete willingness to join Al-Hilal, marking a significant shift from his previous stance. The Milan full-back, who had previously resisted a switch to the Middle East, is now open to joining Simone Inzaghi's side, with talks between the player's representatives and Al-Hilal expected in the coming days.

Long focused on Hernandez as a top target, the Saudi Pro League team are now negotiating a contract with Milan as well as the player. Hernandez has given initial permission to start negotiations and is reviewing the idea.

Hernandez's change in stance follows Al-Hilal's appointment of Inzaghi, with the Saudi giants eager to bolster their squad after finishing second in the domestic campaign 2024-25. The 27-year-old has been a consistent performer at Milan since his arrival from Real Madrid in 2019, racking up 262 appearances in all competitions.

His potential departure signals the end of a key chapter for Milan. Hernandez, who is considered one of Serie A's top fullbacks. Al-Hilal, backed by strong financial resources, remains aggressive in the market and are pushing to finalise terms swiftly.

Moreover, Hernandez' contract expires with Milan next year and he faces being frozen out of the team if he stays without renewing his contract. He had initially hoped to join Atletico Madrid, but the Spaniards failed to pay the transfer fee Milan demanded.

Hernandez’s agents are expected to meet Al-Hilal officials shortly to discuss personal terms. If the deal is finalised, Hernandez will join a growing list of top European players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and more moving to Saudi Arabia, where he would link up with Inzaghi in Riyadh.