Al-Hilal have officially completed the signing of French international left-back Theo Hernandez from AC Milan in a permanent deal worth €25 million, both clubs confirmed on Thursday afternoon.
AC Milan released an official statement confirming: “AC Milan can confirm that Theo Bernard François Hernández has joined Al-Hilal SFC on a permanent basis. The Club would like to thank Theo for these six years together and wishes him all the best for his future personal and professional endeavours.”
The 27-year-old defender underwent his medical test in Paris on Thursday morning before the transfer was formally completed. Theo Hernandez has officially completed his move to Al-Hilal, bringing to an end a six-year stint with AC Milan , marking the end of one of the most successful left-back partnerships in recent Milan history.
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Transfer Details and Financial Terms
The deal was finalized at €25m transfer fee as the French full-back agreed to join Al-Hilal after failing to secure an European move. This figure is a compromise between the two clubs’ initial positions, with Al-Hilal having initially offered €20 million plus bonuses while Milan demanded a fixed €25 million fee.
The transfer concludes weeks of intensive negotiations that saw the French international initially reject Al-Hilal’s approaches before eventually agreeing to the Saudi move. The Théo Hernandez file is definitely closed. After months of negotiations, discussions, and assumptions, the French left side officially leaves the Rossoneri.
Hernandez’s departure marks the conclusion of a remarkable chapter at San Siro. After six seasons in Serie A, 262 appearances, 34 goals and 45 assists, Theo has left Milan. The French defender established himself as one of Europe’s most dynamic left-backs, playing a crucial role in Milan’s 2022 Serie A title triumph.
Since joining from Real Madrid in 2019, Hernandez became the highest-scoring defender in AC Milan’s history, combining defensive solidity with exceptional attacking ability. His pace, crossing ability, and set-piece expertise made him an important part of Milan’s tactical setup under various managers.
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New Chapter Under Simone Inzaghi
AC Milan defender Theo Hernandez has headed to Al-Hilal to join Simone Inzaghi this summer, with further confirmation that the deal is done. The appointment of former Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi as Al-Hilal’s new manager played a big role in convincing Hernandez to make the move to Saudi Arabia.
The French international will now embark on a new adventure in the Saudi Pro League, where he joins a growing list of European stars who have made the transition to Middle Eastern football. His experience and quality are expected to significantly strengthen Al-Hilal’s defensive options.
The 27-year-old will need to maintain his performance levels in the Saudi Pro League to retain his place in Didier Deschamps’ France squad, as the national team coach has historically shown preference for players competing in Europe’s top leagues.
Strategic Move for Both Clubs
For Al-Hilal, securing Hernandez is another statement signing as they continue their ambitious recruitment drive. The Saudi club has been investing heavily in top European talent, and the French defender’s arrival adds good quality and experience to their squad.
For Milan, the €25 million fee provides important funds for their own transfer activities while removing a big salary from their wage bill. The sale allows the Rossoneri to reinvest in new talent as they continue their project under current management.
The transfer officially concludes as one of the summer’s most protracted sagas, with both clubs now able to focus on their respective preparations for the upcoming season.
