Atlético de Madrid could be close to making a market move that will generate controversy among its fans. According to various reports, the red-and-white club is considering signing Theo Hernández as a possible replacement for Javi Galán, who hasn't fully convinced Diego Simeone.
Theo Hernández, Back to the Metropolitano
The story of Theo Hernández with Atlético de Madrid is known by all. Trained in the colchonero youth academy, his move to Real Madrid in 2017 caused a strong discontent among the colchonero fans, who didn't forgive his departure to the eternal rival. Now, fate could give him a second chance at the Metropolitano, although it's unclear how the red-and-white supporters would receive his possible return.
The French left-back, currently at AC Milan, is on the way out. His contract expires in 2026, but the player has refused to renew, which has led the Italian team to consider selling him this summer to avoid losing market value. Sérgio Conceição, who could take the reins of the rossonero club next season, doesn't count on him, which accelerates his possible departure.
A Viable Operation for Atlético de Madrid
The signing of Theo Hernández won't be cheap, but it is feasible. AC Milan has priced his transfer at a figure around 20-25 million euros, a price manageable for Atlético de Madrid. However, the Madrid club will try to lower the cost to undertake an operation that seems complicated.
Galán, who arrived at Atlético last summer, has had few opportunities with Simeone, and his departure seems a matter of time. If Milan agrees to include him in the negotiation, the colchoneros could acquire one of the most sought-after left-backs in Europe at a more accessible price.
A Signing That Divides the Fans
Although Theo Hernández is a player of enormous quality and could contribute a lot to Simeone's scheme, his past still weighs on the memory of many red-and-white fans. It's not just having played for the eternal rival; he also mocked Atlético de Madrid when he wore white.
Despite the controversy, the truth is that Atlético needs to strengthen the left-back position, and the Frenchman would fit perfectly into Simeone's team. Now, it remains to be seen if the colchonero management takes the definitive step to finalize his arrival and if the fans are willing to accept his return.